Govt will ensure every child has access to quality education- Gender Minister

The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dakoa Newman has assured Ghanaians that the Government is committed to ensuring that every child in Ghana has access to quality education, regardless of their background, location, or ability.

According to her, the Government is of the belief that education is the key to unlocking the potential of children and securing a brighter future for the nation.

“Let us work together as partners and agencies to create an inclusive and supportive education system that leaves no child behind. Let us invest in our children’s future and build a Ghana where every child can thrive and reach their full potential,” she urged.

The Minister gave the assurance at the 2024 Day of the African Child held in Accra on Thursday, June 20,2024.

The Day of the African Child (DAC) is commemorated every year on 16th June to honour the students of Soweto, South Africa, who protested against segregation and ill-treatment against black children in schools.

The event serves as a build-up to the recognition of children’s rights at all levels, from those in the home and community to those at the national and international levels.

The proposed theme by the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC) for the DAC 2024 celebration is ‘Education for all children in Africa: the time is now’.

Students from Junior High and Senior High Schools including those who are disabled from across the country were present to commemorate the day with stakeholders at the event.

During a panel discussion, they raised challenges being faced at their various schools including lack of ICT lab, lack of science lab, sanitary pads amongst others and pleaded with the government to intervene.

Speaking at the event, the Gender Minister said for this year 2024, Government has adopted the theme “Education for all Children in Ghana- Improving Access for all”, from the proposed theme by the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC) for the DAC 2024 celebration which is ‘Education for all children in Africa: the time is now’

She said the theme underscores the imperative need to guarantee inclusive and quality education for all African children, without any exceptions.

Dakoa Newman noted that it reinforces education as a basic right and a vital element for a child’s growth, well-being, and future success.

Moreover, she said the theme recognizes that significant efforts are still required to ensure equal access to quality education for all African children, adding that that prompt action is essential to address this pressing issue.

In view of the above, she said,”We hope to promote inclusive education that caters for the essential needs of children with disabilities, improve educational infrastructure, resources, and facilities to create a conducive learning environment, address disparities and inequalities in access to education, such as gender and disability. Improve the quality of education to ensure that children receive a meaningful and effective learning experience.”

Ghana | Atinkaonline.com