NCCE Steps Up Community Education on Gender Equality and Adolescent Safety in Central Tongu

The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) in the Central Tongu District, in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), has intensified community sensitisation on adolescent health, gender equality, and the prevention of gender-based violence (GBV). The initiative forms part of ongoing district-wide engagements with identifiable groups to address emerging concerns about adolescent vulnerability, misinformation, and social discrimination.

The outreach targeted various community groups, including tailors and seamstresses, beauticians, mechanics, and the Adidome Unity Ladies Football Club. These sessions aimed to provide practical guidance and empower young people, especially girls, with knowledge to make informed decisions about their health and safety.

District Director of the NCCE, Mr. George A. K. Amey, stressed that adolescent girls face multiple and often overlapping challenges due to limited access to accurate reproductive health information and harmful socio-cultural norms. These, he explained, expose young girls to early pregnancies, unsafe sexual behaviour, and different forms of violence.

He called on community influencers, artisan groups, and opinion leaders to take ownership of the initiative and strengthen community support systems for adolescents. “We must work collectively to confront the issues affecting our young girls and ensure that their safety and well-being are prioritised at all levels,” he said.

District Programmes Officer, Madam Doris Elikplim Wagba, advised adolescent girls to avoid early sexual activity and seek credible information from trusted health professionals when faced with challenges. She encouraged them to focus on education, skills development, and long-term personal growth.

Madam Wagba emphasized the need for society to promote gender equality by ensuring equal opportunities for both males and females. She also urged the public to report all forms of violence promptly to the appropriate authorities for swift action.

The engagements reaffirm NCCE’s commitment to promoting safe, inclusive, and gender-responsive communities across the Central Tongu District.

The programme was organised by the NCCE in partnership with UNFPA and funding from Global Affairs Canada under the Empowering Adolescents Girls programme.