NCCE engages stakeholders on adolescent health and gender equality in Ho

The Volta Regional Office of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has held a stakeholder engagement in Ho to discuss key issues affecting young people, with a focus on adolescent health, gender equality, and the prevention of gender based violence (GBV).

The engagement, held under the theme, “Empowering Community and Youth for Adolescent Health, Gender Equality and Preventing Gender Based Violence through Civic Engagement,” was organised in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and funded by Global Affairs Canada.

The programme brought together representatives from government institutions, civil society organisations, traditional authorities, religious groups, youth organisations, and other key stakeholders to deliberate on strategies for improving adolescent health outcomes, promoting gender equality, and preventing GBV.

In her introductory remarks, Mrs. Lucille Hewlett Annan, Commission Secretary of the NCCE, welcomed participants and underscored the importance of collective action in creating a safe and supportive environment for adolescents.

She stressed that equipping young people with accurate information, skills, and opportunities was essential for national development and social cohesion.

Mrs. Annan also highlighted the persistent challenges faced by women as a result of gender stereotypes and called for greater promotion of gender sensitive education in schools and communities.

The first presentation was delivered by Mrs. Thywill Eyra Kpe, Volta Regional Director of the Department of Gender, on the topic, “Unpacking Gender, Masculinities and the Role of Men and Boys in Addressing Gender Based Violence.”

She emphasised the need to engage men and boys as active partners in advancing gender equality and addressing harmful social norms that contribute to violence and discrimination.

Participants later engaged in an interactive discussion, sharing experiences and proposing practical measures to strengthen community efforts aimed at preventing gender based violence.

The second presentation was led by Ms. Shine Gavey, a Health Promotion Officer, who spoke on “Adolescent Health Challenges in Ghana and Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights.”

The session addressed issues including adolescent pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, access to reproductive health information, and the need to protect the rights and welfare of adolescents.

Stakeholders stressed the importance of sustained public education, parental involvement, youth friendly health services, and stronger community support systems to enable young people to make informed decisions and lead healthy lives.

Mr. Kenneth Kponor, Volta Regional Director of the NCCE, said the engagement formed part of the NCCE-UNFPA project aimed at promoting adolescent health, gender equality, and the prevention of GBV through civic engagement.

He noted that similar programmes were being implemented across various districts in the region to raise awareness and encourage positive behavioural change among community members.