Accra: A section of the public has observed that fathers today are taking on more responsibilities at home and becoming involved in the upbringing of their children compared to previous generations.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Enoch Gyasi Boateng, a Senior Information Officer at the Information Services Department, highlighted the shift in generational attitudes toward fatherhood. He noted that fathers in the past were often less involved in childcare and household duties.
Mr. Boateng stated that present-day fathers are more engaged, providing financial support while also taking on household responsibilities. He shared his personal experience, saying, "My children are young, so I have to support my wife. I bathe them and ensure they are ready for school while she cooks, and I send them to school." He acknowledged the challenges faced by fathers, such as long working hours and the need to provide for their families. Despite these demands, Mr. Boateng ensures that his family is adequately supported, with his wife managing the home and children when he is away at work.
He described an irresponsible father as one who is absent and fails to fulfill his duties, which often compels women to assume single-parent roles. Mr. Boateng emphasized the importance of teamwork within the family in fostering peace and stability at home. Mr. Samuel Kwei Quaye, Technical Coordinator at the GNA, noted that many fathers now perform tasks such as babysitting and preparing their children for school to support mothers at home. He emphasized that fathers should be approachable and maintain a close relationship with their children.
Ms. Sandra Amarkai Ollennu, a National Service Personnel at the GNA, shared her perspective, describing her father as her protector, mentor, and guide. She praised his efforts to provide for the family, saying, "Even if he didn't have much, he would do his best to provide us with whatever we need to live comfortably." Mr. Benard Owusu, a student, stressed the importance of fathers being present in their children's lives and caring for them, noting that some children who lacked paternal presence sometimes suffered in life.
Mr. Morkporkpor Anku, a journalist with the GNA, detailed his daily routine, which includes several household chores and responsibilities before leaving for work. He prepares his children and drops them off at school, demonstrating that supporting one's spouse is integral to a father's role, in addition to providing financial support.