Bia west: The GIMAT Volunteer Network, a non-governmental organization, in collaboration with the Western North Regional National Youth Authority (NYA), organized a one-day summit for more than 800 female students in the Bia West District.
According to Ghana News Agency, the event, titled 'Biology of the Girl Child Summit,' was conducted under the theme: 'Educate, Empower, Elevate: A summit for the modern Ghanaian Girl.' The summit's primary objective was to equip young females with the necessary knowledge and skills for making informed decisions regarding reproductive rights and health. It also aimed to empower them to take control of their future by avoiding negative relationships and focusing on mental health wellbeing.
Madam Fortune Morkporkpor Adalevo, Summit Lead and International Coordinator for GIMAT Volunteer Network, expressed the organization's concern about the low confidence levels and insufficient knowledge among young girls concerning their sexual and reproductive health rights. She highlighted that a survey by the organization revealed that drug abuse is not limited to boys, prompting the initiative to educate girls on the dangers associated with such behaviors. Additionally, the NGO has partnered with Essam Government Hospital to establish a dedicated unit to address participants' health needs.
The Western North Regional Director of the NYA, Mr. Alhassan Mohammed Adama, praised GIMAT for organizing the summit, emphasizing its potential to empower young girls to make informed life choices. He noted the Authority's ongoing efforts to promote girls' education through mentorship, scholarships, and skills training programs. Mr. Adama encouraged participants to take charge of their lives and mentor other girls in their communities who could not attend the summit. He urged stakeholders to focus on educating, empowering, and elevating young girls to become confident and successful women who will contribute to shaping the country's future.
Participants who spoke with the Ghana News Agency expressed their appreciation for the initiative, noting that it would enhance their confidence and guide them in making informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health rights.