NCCE Engages Atiavi Youth on GBV Prevention, Adolescent Health and Gender Equality

Young people in Atiavi, within the Keta Municipality, participated in an interactive community dialogue organized by the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), Keta Municipal Office, to raise awareness on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), adolescent pregnancy, harmful social norms, and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR).

The dialogue formed part of the project, "Empowering Community and Youth for Adolescent Health, Gender Equality, and Preventing Gender-Based Violence through Civic Engagement," being implemented by the NCCE in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) with financial support from Global Affairs Canada.

The program created an open platform for young people to discuss challenges affecting adolescents and explore practical ways of promoting healthy lifestyles, gender equality, and positive relationships within their communities.

Addressing participants, the Deputy Director of the Keta Municipal Office of the NCCE, Madam Lina Elinam Bensah, emphasized that young people are not merely beneficiaries of development interventions but are also key agents of change. She encouraged them to become ambassadors of respect, tolerance, and responsible behavior while influencing their peers to make positive life choices.

She noted that Gender-Based Violence, discrimination, and harmful social norms continue to undermine the well-being and future prospects of many adolescents, particularly girls. She stressed that violence in all its forms is unacceptable and urged participants to contribute to building peaceful, inclusive, and violence-free communities.

The discussion also focused on the growing concern of adolescent pregnancy and the importance of providing young people with accurate information on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights. Participants were encouraged to make informed decisions, pursue their educational and personal aspirations, and seek guidance from parents, teachers, and other trusted adults whenever necessary.

Recognizing the critical role of boys and men in transforming social attitudes, Madam Bensah called on male participants to challenge harmful gender stereotypes and actively promote gender equality. She encouraged them to become advocates for the prevention of Gender-Based Violence within their families, schools, and communities.

She further emphasized that every child, especially the girl child, deserves a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment in which to thrive. Parents, guardians, and community members were therefore encouraged to provide adolescents with the support and guidance needed to promote their health, education, and overall well-being.

The interactive nature of the dialogue enabled participants to share their experiences, concerns, and suggestions on addressing issues affecting young people in Atiavi. Many pledged their commitment to promoting positive values, preventing violence, and supporting initiatives that protect the rights and welfare of adolescents.

The NCCE Keta Municipal Office reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining civic education and community engagement activities aimed at empowering young people, advancing adolescent health, promoting gender equality, and preventing Gender-Based Violence across the municipality.