
In an effort to combat the rising tide of teenage pregnancy within the Bekwai Municipality, the Department of Social Welfare and Community Development (SWCD) organized a comprehensive education session on Wednesday, August 23rd, 2023. The event, held at Chiransa, brought together concerned citizens, community leaders, and facilitators from the SWCD.
Led by a dedicated team comprising Emmanuel Adusei Poku, Mary Pokuaa Ofori, Ebenezer Atta Mensah, Francisca Awuah, and Ruth Adutwumwaa, the session aimed to impart crucial knowledge and awareness regarding the risks and consequences of teenage pregnancy.
The facilitators employed a variety of interactive methods to engage participants, including group discussions, presentations, and question-and-answer sessions. Topics covered ranged from reproductive health education to the importance of family planning and the socio-economic impact of teenage pregnancies on individuals and communities.
Emmanuel Adusei Poku, one of the lead facilitators, emphasized the significance of community involvement in tackling this pervasive issue. "It's not just about education; it's about creating a supportive environment where teenagers feel empowered to make informed choices about their health and future," he stated.
Mary Pokuaa Ofori highlighted the role of parents and guardians in fostering open communication with their children about sensitive topics such as sexuality and relationships. "Effective communication within families is key to preventing teenage pregnancies. We need to break the silence and address these issues head-on," she asserted.
Participants expressed gratitude for the informative session, acknowledging the need for ongoing efforts to address teenage pregnancy within their communities. Many pledged to take the knowledge gained back to their families and peers, committing to promoting awareness and advocating for positive change.
As the session concluded, Ebenezer Atta Mensah reaffirmed the SWCD's commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at reducing teenage pregnancies and improving the overall well-being of adolescents in the Bekwai Municipality. "This is just the beginning. Together, we can create a future where every teenager has the opportunity to thrive," he concluded.
The education session served as a crucial step forward in the Bekwai Municipality's ongoing efforts to combat teenage pregnancy and promote the health and welfare of its youth population. With continued community engagement and support, it is hoped that tangible progress will be made in addressing this pressing social issue.