In Goaso, a troubling social trend is raising concerns about student welfare, dignity, and the future of young women in education.
The Paramount Queen Mother, Nana Afia Serwaa I, has drawn attention to reports that some female nursing students are engaging in transactional relationships with commercial tricycle operators, popularly known as “pragia” riders, in exchange for reduced transport fares.
Speaking at the Asanteman Nkosuo Honorary Awards 2026 in Kumasi, she warned that what may appear as a minor coping strategy for daily transport costs carries serious consequences for both personal dignity and national development.
At the heart of the issue is economic vulnerability. For some students, even small transport fares create pressure. However, experts warn that such arrangements risk exploitation, compromise personal dignity, and can derail academic progress.
The long-term effects directly threaten Sustainable Development Goal 4, as students may become distracted, perform poorly, or drop out. It also undermines Sustainable Development Goal 5, exposing young women to unequal power dynamics, early pregnancies, and limited future opportunities.
Beyond education and gender equality, the issue touches on human dignity—an essential foundation for sustainable development. When financial hardship pushes students into survival-based choices, it reflects broader gaps in social protection systems.
Nana Afia Serwaa I is therefore calling for urgent, collective action. She is advocating stronger community support, guidance for young people, and expanded economic opportunities to reduce vulnerability among both students and unemployed youth.
Her message is clear: achieving sustainable development is not only about policy and infrastructure, but also about protecting the dignity, safety, and potential of every young person.
Without targeted interventions, such hidden struggles could continue to undermine progress toward inclusive and equitable development.
Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Sandra Nana Adwoa Annan
