The Bible Society of Ghana orchestrated a significant seminar in the Savelugu Municipality, focusing on the pressing issue of teenage pregnancy and empowering adolescent girls with practical life skills. This initiative brought together young women from fifteen different Junior High Schools, creating a platform for education, awareness, and skill development. The collaboration with local stakeholders, including traditional leaders, healthcare professionals, and academics, underscored the community-wide commitment to addressing this critical social challenge. The seminar’s multifaceted approach aimed not only to educate girls about the risks and consequences of teenage pregnancy but also to provide them with an alternative path toward a brighter future through bead-making training. This holistic approach reflects a deep understanding of the complex interplay between social pressures, economic vulnerability, and the need for practical solutions in preventing teenage pregnancy.
Reverend Atia Anara Charles, Regional Manager for the Bible Society, set the tone for the seminar by emphasizing the vital importance of educating and empowering young girls. He articulated the organization’s vision for a more supportive and informed environment for adolescents, recognizing the challenges they face in navigating the pressures of adolescence. His announcement of the upcoming “Teens Trauma Programme” in the Northern Region signaled a proactive approach to addressing the psychological well-being of teenagers, a crucial aspect often overlooked in discussions surrounding teenage pregnancy. Furthermore, Rev. Charles highlighted the potential of the bead-making sessions to provide a productive and engaging activity for the girls, effectively filling their idle time and diverting them from potentially risky behaviors. This practical element of the seminar acknowledged the need for tangible alternatives that can empower girls to make healthy choices.
The representative of the Sahakpal Naa echoed the concerns raised by Rev. Charles, underscoring the detrimental impact of teenage pregnancy on both individuals and the wider community. His remarks emphasized the shared responsibility of the public and organizations like the Bible Society in curbing early parenthood. This call for collective action highlighted the necessity of a collaborative approach involving various stakeholders to effectively address this complex issue. The emphasis on partnership underscored the understanding that tackling teenage pregnancy requires a multi-pronged strategy involving community leaders, families, educators, and organizations dedicated to youth development. This collaborative spirit strengthens the potential for long-term, sustainable solutions.
Mr. Mohammed Fuseini, another key figure at the seminar, lauded the initiative and reinforced the crucial need to protect and nurture the future of young girls. He encouraged the students to draw inspiration from successful women within their community, citing examples such as former MP Mary Boforo, former MCE Hajia Ayishetu, and current MP Hajia Fatahiya Abdul Aziz. By highlighting these role models, Mr. Fuseini aimed to inspire the girls to pursue their own aspirations and envision a future beyond the immediate challenges they face. This focus on positive role models offered a powerful message of empowerment, demonstrating the potential for girls from the Savelugu Municipality to achieve significant accomplishments.
Ms. Amatu Mercy, the guest speaker at the seminar, delivered a powerful message advocating for abstinence from sexual activity. She commended the Bible Society for its unwavering commitment to youth development and urged for more frequent and sustained engagements of this nature. Her call for increased attention to youth development highlighted the importance of ongoing support and guidance for adolescent girls as they navigate the complexities of adolescence. Ms. Mercy’s strong advocacy for abstinence, coupled with the practical skills training offered at the seminar, provided a comprehensive approach to empowering girls to make informed and responsible choices.
The student participants themselves expressed their appreciation for the seminar, reflecting on the valuable lessons learned and pledging to make healthier choices moving forward. Their testimonies underscored the effectiveness of the program in raising awareness and inspiring positive behavioral change. The girls’ commitment to avoiding early sexual activity demonstrated the impact of the education and empowerment they received during the seminar. Their gratitude towards the Bible Society of Ghana highlighted the organization’s positive contribution to their lives and their community. The seminar concluded with the hands-on bead-making training, equipping the girls with a valuable skill they can utilize during school holidays, offering a productive and income-generating activity. This practical skill-building element not only provided the girls with a potential source of income but also instilled a sense of accomplishment and self-reliance, further empowering them to take control of their futures.
