Eastern region: Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, has cautioned parents against introducing family planning methods to young girls at an early age, emphasizing that parental guidance should be prioritized in raising responsible children.
According to Ghana Web, Awatey spoke at the Yilo Krobo Future Leaders Conference and Workshop, questioning the rationale behind putting children as young as pupils in class 6 on contraceptives. She asked, "In class six, some parents put their child on family planning. Why are you introducing contraception to a child at that age?"
Awatey stressed that parents have a critical role to guide and discipline their children rather than relying on early contraception as a preventive measure. She shared her personal experience, stating that she had successfully raised more than five girls without resorting to family planning for them at an early age, urging other parents to provide proper guidance to their children.
She referenced the biblical injunction to 'train a child the way he should go,' highlighting that some parents wait too long to correct their children and, in some cases, over-pamper them. Awatey emphasized that the lack of firm parental supervision could lead to children engaging in irresponsible behavior. She stressed that parents must take an active role in shaping their children's character and future.
Awatey also mentioned a recent incident at a senior high school, noting that some parents appeared to have been aware of their child's misconduct but did not take appropriate action. She urged parents to learn from successful role models and provide the discipline and guidance necessary to help young people become responsible adults.