Effia Kwesimintim NCCE Leads Sensitisation Drive on Child Protection in the Municipality

In a bid to deepen awareness and protect the rights of children, the Effia Kwesimintim Municipal Office of the NCCE, in collaboration with Compassion Ghana, a non-governmental organisation, has held separate engagements with parents and caregivers, as well as adolescents in the Municipality.

.Both sessions, which took place in the Angel Grace JHS Conference Hall, focused on pressing issues affecting child welfare, including neglect, corporal punishment, defilement, teenage pregnancy, and child sexual abuse.

Addressing beneficiary parents and caregivers, an Assistant Director of the Commission, Mr Yusif Usman, emphasised the dangers of child neglect and the long-term psychological and social consequences it poses. He cautioned against the use of corporal punishment, noting that while discipline is essential, violent corrective measures often lead to trauma and hinder a child’s development.

He urged caregivers to adopt positive corrective strategies that foster trust, respect, and responsibility in children. “Every child deserves a safe and nurturing environment. Discipline must be corrective, not destructive,” Mr Usman stated.

Meanwhile, in his interaction with the adolescents, Mr Usman tackled sensitive but critical topics such as defilement, teenage pregnancy, and child sexual abuse. He highlighted the importance of vigilance, self-awareness, and reporting mechanisms to shield young people from exploitation.

He further stressed how teenage pregnancy and sexual abuse can rob children of their future, calling for empowerment through knowledge sharing and acquisition to build their confidence to resist and report such acts.

Participants expressed appreciation for the initiative, noting that the discussions provided practical guidance on parenting and personal safety. Many parents pledged to adopt non-violent corrective measures, while students committed to being more vigilant and supportive of peers facing challenges.