Agotime ziope: SheSpeaks Forum, an affiliate of the Nneka Youth Foundation, a youth-focused nonprofit organization, celebrated the International Day of the Girl-Child at Agotime Senior High School in the Volta Region's Agotime Ziope District. The event brought together students, parents, and school-based facilitators to discuss challenges impacting the development of girls in the district.
According to Ghana News Agency, discussions revealed that parental irresponsibility often forces girls to seek support from men, while issues such as rape by influential community figures and peer pressure further exacerbate their struggles. Participants proposed a comprehensive strategy to tackle the high rate of teenage pregnancy in the area.
The event featured a panel discussion addressing community challenges affecting academic performance and youth development, especially among girls. Panelists included Madam Cecilia Fiaka, Madam Aku-Sika Kpene, the former Deputy Women's Organiser of the National Democratic Congress, and Mrs Victoria Selorm Addo, a senior health practitioner. They shared insights and experiences, encouraging girls to strive for equality, take responsibility for their actions, and set realistic goals.
Parents pledged to create supportive environments for their daughters' growth and development. The program highlighted the importance of community and religious organizations in guiding girls, while also encouraging boys to support their sisters.
The Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to collaborative efforts to advocate and engage the community effectively. Twelve pupils who attended the Summer Camp were introduced as District Ambassadors, with a call for educational sector support to help them positively influence their peers.
The Foundation expressed gratitude to the Ghana Education Service, Ghana Health Service, and the Minister of Gender and Child Protection for their support, emphasizing that addressing social issues requires collective action.