Sekyere Central NCCE Urges Parents at Kwadjei Charcoal Market to Prioritise Adolescent Development

Parents and guardians have been urged to speak openly with adolescents about bodily changes, pregnancy prevention and responsible decision-making, rather than leaving young people to navigate a critical stage of their development without adequate guidance.

The appeal came from the Sekyere Central District Directorate of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) during an engagement with parents at Kwadjei Charcoal Market. The discussion centred on the role of families in protecting young people's wellbeing and helping them build a foundation for productive adulthood.

Addressing the parents, the District Director of NCCE, Mr. Gordon Yeboah Opoku, described adolescents as an important part of Ghana's future development. He encouraged families to take a more active interest in the physical, emotional and moral development of their children, particularly as they experience the changes associated with puberty.

Mr. Opoku emphasised the need for truthful, age-appropriate conversations about physical development and the possibility of pregnancy. He urged parents and guardians to provide accurate information, listen to adolescents' concerns and offer guidance that enables them to make informed choices.

The engagement also drew attention to the scale of adolescent pregnancy in Ghana. Data from the Ghana Health Service indicate that 53,415 adolescent pregnancies were recorded at health facilities nationwide during a seven-month reporting period. The figure reinforced concerns about the need for sustained education and support for young people.

Against this background, the NCCE Director called on parents to recognise that effective guidance extends beyond warnings and discipline. He encouraged them to build trusting relationships with their children so that adolescents can seek advice and discuss sensitive concerns without fear of rejection.

The appeal also highlighted the importance of restoring confidence in adolescents rather than focusing exclusively on the risks associated with their development. Parents were encouraged to recognise young people's potential and provide the understanding, reassurance and supervision necessary to support their personal growth.

Mr. Opoku further stressed the importance of instilling positive values in young people, explaining that parental involvement can help them develop a sense of responsibility and make decisions consistent with their long-term aspirations.

The message extended beyond the home. The NCCE Director highlighted the shared responsibility of civic institutions, civil society organisations, faith-based organisations and parents in supporting adolescents through a period that can influence their educational and personal prospects.

The engagement underscored the importance of consistent communication between parents and children, particularly on issues that are sometimes difficult to discuss within families. By providing accurate information and reassurance, caregivers can help young people approach adolescence with greater confidence.

The Sekyere Central NCCE Directorate's message reinforced the importance of investing in young people's development through responsible parenting, positive guidance and sustained community support. Parents were encouraged to remain present, supportive and attentive as their children grow into responsible adults.