Market women and men at Bakpa Avedo in the Central Tongu District have received education on adolescent health, gender equality and the prevention of gender-based violence as part of a community durbar organised by the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), with support from Global Affairs Canada.
The June 25 engagement brought together health professionals, civic educators and community leaders to address issues affecting adolescents and promote safer, more inclusive communities free from harmful social practices.
Central Tongu District Director of the NCCE, George A. K. Amey, said the initiative is aimed at deepening public understanding of challenges confronting young people, particularly adolescent girls, while encouraging behavioural change that reduces teenage pregnancy, gender inequality and violence.
He urged participants to take up the role of community ambassadors by sharing the knowledge gained with families and neighbours, stressing that sustained civic education is key to building a safer society.
Public Health Officer, Wisdom Nyikplokpo, also appealed to parents—especially fathers and boys—to actively support adolescent girls by providing guidance and meeting their basic needs, noting that such support reduces vulnerability to exploitation and early pregnancy.
Psychosocial Counsellor and Chief Executive Officer of the Mamalyn Charity Foundation, Evelyn Abese, called on residents to reject all forms of gender-based violence, describing it as a major barrier to family stability and community development. She encouraged dialogue and mutual respect as better alternatives to conflict resolution.
Former educationist, Ametsigo Kaka Justine, highlighted the need for equal opportunities for men and women, stating that long-standing societal norms have often disadvantaged women and girls. She called for stronger support for female empowerment in education, leadership and economic participation.
The Queen Mother of Bakpa Avedo Market, Mawusi Teyikpa, expressed appreciation to the organisers for bringing the programme to the community, saying it would help reduce teenage pregnancy, curb gender-based violence and strengthen peaceful coexistence among residents.
The engagement forms part of broader efforts to promote adolescent wellbeing, gender equality and community-driven solutions to social challenges.
