Bakpa avedo: The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), with support from Global Affairs Canada, organized a community durbar at Bakpa Avedo Market in the Central Tongu District. The event aimed to educate market vendors on adolescent health, gender equality, and the prevention of gender-based violence.
According to Ghana News Agency, the engagement, held on June 25, was part of efforts to raise awareness about issues affecting adolescents and promote peaceful coexistence through the elimination of harmful social practices. Mr. George A. K. Amey, Central Tongu District Director of the NCCE, stated that the program was part of the Commission's initiative to deepen public understanding of adolescent issues and promote respect for the rights of women and girls.
Mr. Amey highlighted that civic education is crucial in changing attitudes and behaviors that fuel teenage pregnancy, gender inequality, and gender-based violence. He encouraged participants to act as ambassadors by educating their families, neighbors, and peers, emphasizing that collective community action is essential to building a safe, inclusive, and violence-free society.
Mr. Wisdom Nyikplokpo, a Public Health Officer, appealed to parents, especially fathers and boys, to support adolescent girls in realizing their full potential by providing basic needs and guidance. He mentioned that such support could reduce young girls' vulnerability to exploitation and teenage pregnancy, urging parents to serve as mentors and role models.
Madam Evelyn Abese, Psychosocial Counsellor and Chief Executive Officer of the Mamalyn Charity Foundation, urged residents to reject all forms of gender-based violence, describing it as a significant threat to family and community development. She emphasized that violence is not a solution to conflicts and promoted dialogue, mutual respect, and consensus in resolving disagreements.
Mrs. Ametsigo Kaka Justine, a retired educationist, called for equal opportunities for both men and women, noting that societal practices have historically favored men at the expense of women and girls. She advocated for equal access to education, leadership, and economic opportunities for women and girls and appealed to men to support efforts aimed at empowering females.
Madam Mawusi Teyikpa, Queen Mother of the Bakpa Avedo Market, expressed appreciation to the NCCE, UNFPA, and Global Affairs Canada for bringing the civic education program to the community. She hoped that the initiative would help reduce teenage pregnancy, prevent gender-based violence, and promote equal opportunities for both men and women to live peacefully and harmoniously.