NCCE-Keta Engages Apprentices on Adolescent Health, Gender Equality and GBV Prevention

The Keta Municipal Directorate of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE-Keta), through the Adolescent Girls Program (AGP), has intensified civic education activities aimed at promoting adolescent health, gender equality, and the prevention of gender-based violence (GBV) in communities.

As part of the initiative, Ms. Agartha Fiakofi, Senior Civic Education Officer (SCEO), engaged members of the Abutiakope Cooperative apprentices and God’s Love Fashion at Dzelukope.

The engagement, funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), formed part of efforts by NCCE-Keta to strengthen community awareness and empower adolescent girls, boys and other community members to promote adolescent health, gender equality and the prevention of GBV through sustained civic engagement.

Ms. Fiakofi led an interactive discussion on Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (ASRHR), encouraging participants to seek accurate information and make responsible decisions concerning their health and well-being. She emphasized that adolescents have the right to appropriate health information and services and should be able to access them without fear, stigma or discrimination.

The participants were also educated on the prevention, recognition and reporting of gender-based violence. They were sensitized on the various forms of GBV and encouraged to speak up and report cases through the appropriate channels rather than remaining silent.

Another key area of the engagement was the debunking of myths and misconceptions surrounding contraceptives and family planning services. Ms. Fiakofi urged participants to seek accurate information from qualified health professionals and avoid relying on misconceptions that could negatively influence their health choices.

The session further provided a safe and respectful environment for participants to discuss sexual and reproductive health issues openly. Young people were encouraged to ask questions, express their concerns and seek guidance without fear of embarrassment, stigma or judgment.

Participants were also sensitized on how and where to access youth-friendly sexual and reproductive health services, with emphasis on the importance of seeking timely and reliable professional support.

The interactive nature of the engagement enabled the apprentices to share their experiences, ask questions and reflect on their responsibilities in promoting respectful relationships, gender equality and violence-free communities.

NCCE-Keta continues to use civic education as a tool to equip young people and community members with the knowledge and confidence needed to protect their rights, make informed decisions and become active agents of positive change in their communities.