Volta Region: NCCE, UNFPA Engage Stakeholders on Gender Equality and Adolescent Health

The Volta Regional Office of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has organized a stakeholder engagement in Ho under the theme, "Empowering Communities and Youth for Adolescent Health, Gender Equality and Preventing Gender-Based Violence through Civic Engagement."

The program was organized in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and funded by Global Affairs Canada.

The event brought together representatives from government institutions, civil society organizations, traditional authorities, religious bodies, youth groups, and other key stakeholders to discuss issues relating to adolescent health, gender equality, and the prevention of gender-based violence (GBV).

In her opening remarks, Lucille Hewlett Annan, Commission Secretary of the NCCE, welcomed participants and emphasized the importance of collaboration in creating a safe and supportive environment for adolescents. She noted that empowering young people with accurate information and opportunities is essential for national development and social cohesion.

Mrs. Annan further observed that many women continue to experience discrimination due to gender stereotypes and called for the promotion of gender-sensitive education in schools and communities to help address such challenges.

The first presentation was delivered by Thywill Eyra Kpe, Volta Regional Director for Gender, on the topic “Unpacking Gender, Masculinities and the Role of Men and Boys in Addressing Gender-Based Violence.” She highlighted the importance of engaging men and boys as partners in promoting gender equality and addressing harmful social norms that contribute to violence and discrimination.

Participants took part in an interactive dialogue session, sharing experiences and proposing practical measures to strengthen community efforts aimed at preventing gender-based violence.

The second presentation was facilitated by Shine Gavey, a Health Promotion Officer, on the topic “Adolescent Health Challenges in Ghana and Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights.” Discussions focused on adolescent pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, access to reproductive health information, and the protection of adolescents' rights and welfare.

Stakeholders underscored the need for sustained public education, active parental involvement, youth-friendly health services, and stronger community support systems to empower adolescents to make informed decisions and lead healthy lives.

Speaking on the significance of the engagement, Kenneth Kponor, Volta Regional Director of the NCCE, explained that the program forms part of the NCCE-UNFPA project aimed at promoting adolescent health, gender equality, and the prevention of gender-based violence through civic engagement and community participation.

He added that similar engagements are being implemented across various districts to raise awareness and encourage positive behavioral change among community members.