Sekondi-takoradi: The Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Education Office, in collaboration with the Western Regional Directorate of Gender, has commemorated this year’s International Day of the Girl Child with participation from over 200 students from basic and senior high schools. The event focused on educating the girls about recognizing their self-worth, potentials, and values to contribute meaningfully to society.
According to Ghana News Agency, the theme for the 2025 celebration is ‘The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Empowering Girls in Crisis’. Madam Maribel Akuorkor Okine, the Western Regional Director of the Department of Gender, emphasized the importance of empowering young girls with knowledge, skills, and support to prepare them as future leaders. She highlighted the need for education, promotion of girls’ rights, and protection from violence and exploitation while encouraging them to pursue their interests.
Madam Okine pointed out the numerous challenges girls face, including puberty, peer pressure, academic stress, mental health issues, and social media harassment. She stressed the importance of proper orientation and self-awareness to help girls effectively manage these challenges. In the Western Region, cultural norms often prioritize men, which makes the theme particularly relevant. She urged for ongoing support to empower girls to lead positive change, advocating for a world where girls thrive and make a lasting impact.
Professor Gladys Quartey from Takoradi Technical University noted that investing in girls is crucial for the country’s future and called for continuous mentorship. She warned girls against falling for flattering words that could lead to abuse, advising them to focus on personal development and not settle for less. Sharing her own experience, she recounted turning down an early marriage proposal to pursue academic goals, which ultimately led to her success as a professor.
Madam Margaret Blay, the Metropolitan Girl Child Coordinator, reiterated that investing in girls leads to stronger families and vibrant communities. She encouraged stakeholders to commit to creating better environments and opportunities for girls to succeed.