Accra: Mrs. Joyce Eku, the Executive Director of Childfocus Ghana, emphasized the critical role of investing in children, asserting that the future of every community hinges on how well today's youth are nurtured and empowered. She highlighted education as a pivotal tool for transforming lives, fostering confidence, and preparing children to become responsible leaders and problem-solvers.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mrs. Eku made these remarks during the official inauguration of the Childfocus Club at Fiankonya D/A Basic School in the Shai Osudoku District of the Greater Accra Region. The event, themed 'The Relevance of Education,' showcased the talents of schoolchildren through drama, poetry, music, cultural dance, and recitals. These performances aimed to raise public awareness about issues affecting child development and community growth.
The initiative is part of Childfocus Ghana's broader efforts to use creative arts as a medium for community sensitization while promoting children's participation and leadership. Childfocus Ghana is a community-based non-governmental organization dedicated to empowering vulnerable children, women, girls, and families in underserved communities. The organization strives to nurture young minds, strengthen caregivers, and create opportunities for women and girls to thrive, recognizing that the well-being of children is closely linked to the empowerment of their families and communities.
Mrs. Eku noted that education should transcend academic achievements, focusing instead on building character, values, creativity, leadership, and critical thinking skills. Through the Childfocus Club, the organization complements the efforts of the Ghana Education Service by providing mentorship, personal development training, digital and IT skills, cultural education, and extracurricular activities to help children realize their full potential. "We want every child to know that they are capable of achieving great things regardless of their background," she stated.
The performances by the children illustrated the talents and abilities that can emerge when young people receive the right opportunities and support. Mrs. Eku reaffirmed Childfocus Ghana's commitment to collaborating closely with schools, parents, community leaders, and government institutions to foster a supportive environment for children's development. She encouraged the children to continue believing in themselves, pursue their dreams, and seize available opportunities to build a brighter future.
Madam Joyce Larkpleku, Headmistress of Fiankonya D/A Basic School, praised Childfocus Ghana for initiating the program and selecting her school as the host of the inaugural event. She described the organization's commitment to child development and education as highly commendable, noting that schools have a responsibility beyond academic instruction to nurture disciplined, respectful, and hardworking learners who can contribute positively to society. "The success of educational efforts depends on the collective support of parents, guardians, community leaders, and development partners," Madam Larkpleku emphasized.
She encouraged parents to ensure regular school attendance, provide conducive learning environments at home, and actively engage in their children's academic progress. She urged the pupils to take advantage of every opportunity to learn, respect their teachers and parents, and remain focused on their studies.
Mr. Gideon Mayer, the Representative for the Shai Osudoku District, expressed gratitude to Childfocus Ghana for partnering with the Government of Ghana to facilitate the delivery of quality education for all. "I also want to appeal to all and sundry to support what Childfocus Ghana is doing, the path they have taken to help build children in the district," he said.