CAMFED-Ghana five-year plan to enhance quality girl-child education in rural areas

The CAMFED-Ghana National Governance Structure for the Parent Association (PA) and Parent Support Group (PSG) initiative aims to enhance community involvement in education, particularly for girls who face significant barriers to completing their schooling.

This governance initiative marks a step towards improving the effectiveness of CAMFED’s programs by ensuring that parents and communities play a central role in promoting girls’ education across Ghana. It aligns with CAMFED's 2024-2029 strategic plan, which focuses on transforming educational prospects for young people and strengthening the bond between schools and homes.

The initiative is designed to empower parents and community members to actively participate in their children's education, creating a supportive environment that prioritizes the well-being of every child, especially those in rural areas.

In collaboration with schools and local stakeholders, the initiative seeks to foster a holistic, community-driven educational experience. To ensure effective implementation, a committee was inaugurated in Tamale, with three executives elected to lead the program: Madam Memunatu Gaddo as Chairperson, Madam Prespera Esana as Secretary, and Mr. Yakubu Idu Issahaq as Organizer.

Clara Tigenoah, Head of Programmes at CAMFED Ghana, explained that the initiative is focused on empowering parents in rural areas to support young girls in accessing quality education for a better future. The program also aims to strengthen partnerships between parents, schools, and the broader community to achieve the best educational outcomes, particularly for girls.

"When communities are empowered, it supports the success of every child, especially girls who face the greatest challenges in completing their education," Tigenoah noted. She emphasized that the newly elected leaders are tasked with representing parents' voices and reinforcing the support system within CAMFED’s framework.

"Our ambitious goal is to help meet the global Sustainable Development Goals by supporting millions more girls in rural Africa to complete secondary school, transition into secure livelihoods and leadership roles, and in turn mentor the next generation—transforming education systems across Africa," she added.

Mr. Martin Rex Kuunyem, Programmes Officer at CAMFED Ghana, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to reaching five million girls in the next five years, providing educational support to combat school-based violence and improve educational outcomes.

He urged parents and community members to support the committee's efforts in implementing the program and building a brighter future for young girls in rural areas.

Chairperson Madam Memunatu Gaddo expressed gratitude for the trust placed in her and her colleagues, promising to lead the program effectively and work towards achieving its goals. She called on everyone to join in advocating for children’s education in a more organized and impactful manner.