SheSpeaks Forum, an affiliate of the Nneka Youth Foundation, a youth-focused non-profit organisation, has commemorated the International Day of the Girl-Child at Agotime Senior High School in the Agotime Ziope District of the Volta Region.
The event brought together students, parents, and school-based facilitators to discuss challenges affecting the development of girls in the district. Students cited parental neglect, sexual abuse by influential community figures, peer pressure, and limited protection as major issues affecting their growth and well-being.
Participants proposed holistic strategies to address the high rate of teenage pregnancy and shared perspectives on improving youth development. A panel discussion addressed community challenges affecting academic performance and overall growth, particularly for girls. Panellists included Madam Cecilia Fiaka, Madam Aku-Sika Kpene, former Deputy Women’s Organiser of the National Democratic Congress, and Mrs Victoria Selorm Addo, a senior health practitioner, who encouraged girls to pursue equality, take responsibility for their actions, and set achievable goals.
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Parents committed to fostering supportive environments to promote the healthy development of their daughters, while boys were encouraged to support their sisters and work in harmony rather than in competition. The programme highlighted the vital role of stakeholders, especially community and religious organisations, in mentoring girls.
Twelve pupils who attended this year’s Summer Camp were introduced as District Ambassadors, tasked with positively influencing their peers with support from the education sector. The Foundation reiterated its commitment to collaborative efforts to combat social vices and promote youth development.
SheSpeaks Forum expressed gratitude to the Ghana Education Service, Ghana Health Service, and the Minister of Gender and Child Protection for their unwavering support in the initiative.
