NCCE-Keta Takes Adolescent Health and GBV Education to Keta Market Lorry Station

As part of efforts to promote adolescent health, gender equality, and the prevention of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), Keta Municipal Office, organized a community outreach programme at the Keta Market Lorry Station.

The activity was carried out under the project “Empowering Community and Youth for Adolescent Health, Gender Equality, and Preventing Gender-Based Violence through Civic Engagement,” which is being implemented by NCCE in partnership with UNFPA and with financial support from Global Affairs Canada.

The Keta Market Lorry Station, a bustling commercial hub and high-traffic public space, provided a strategic opportunity to reach a wide cross-section of the community. Beneficiaries included traders, transport operators, artisans, media Personnel, market men and women, passengers, and other members of the public

The outreach was facilitated by Mr. Dorvlo, Keta Municipal Public Health Nurse, and Mr. Bright Dzila, Keta Municipal Director of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), who educated participants on issues relating to adolescent reproductive health, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), harmful social norms, and the prevention of Gender-Based Violence.

During the engagement, participants were informed about the harmful effects of GBV on individuals, families, and communities. The facilitators emphasized that violence and abuse have far-reaching consequences and that everyone has a responsibility to help create safe and respectful environments for women, girls, and other vulnerable persons.

The discussion also highlighted the critical role of men and boys in preventing Gender-Based Violence and promoting respect for human rights. Participants were encouraged to become positive role models and advocates for gender equality within their homes and communities.

Addressing adolescent reproductive health, the Mad. Dovlo stressed the importance of supporting young people with accurate information, guidance, and care to enable them to make responsible decisions. Parents and community members were urged to provide adolescents with safe and supportive environments that promote their health, education, and overall well-being.

Community members were further encouraged to challenge harmful social norms and practices that negatively affect adolescents, particularly girls. They were reminded that speaking up against abuse and reporting incidents of violence can help protect victims and prevent future occurrences.

The interactive nature of the programme attracted considerable public interest, with many participants asking questions and sharing their perspectives on the challenges facing adolescents in their communities.

NCCE-Keta reaffirmed its commitment to working with stakeholders and community members to promote positive behavioural change, protect the rights of young people, and build safer, healthier, and more inclusive communities for all.