In a concerted effort to address the pervasive issue of early marriage within the Bekwai Municipality, the Department of Social Welfare and Community Development organized a crucial educational event on Monday, November 6th, 2023, in Asakyire. The seminar aimed to enlighten community members about the root causes, profound effects, preventive measures, and necessary interventions concerning early marriage.
Led by a team of dedicated facilitators comprising Mary Pokuaa Ofori, Evans Owusu Addai, Elizabeth Afia Pokuaa, Emmanuel Agyare, and Francisca Awuah, the session drew a diverse audience eager to engage in this critical discourse.
Throughout the event, attendees were sensitized to the multifaceted nature of early marriage, understanding it not merely as a cultural norm but also as a complex issue entwined with social, economic, and educational factors. Facilitators meticulously elucidated the detrimental consequences of early marriage, including the curtailment of educational opportunities, perpetuation of poverty cycles, heightened health risks, and the infringement of basic human rights, especially for young girls.
Crucially, the seminar emphasized preventive strategies, highlighting the pivotal role of education, community mobilization, legal frameworks, and economic empowerment in mitigating the prevalence of early marriage. Participants were encouraged to challenge harmful traditional norms and advocate for the rights and agency of young individuals, particularly girls, within their communities.
Furthermore, the session underscored the importance of targeted interventions to support vulnerable individuals at risk of early marriage. From establishing support networks and safe spaces to providing access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, the municipality pledged to implement comprehensive initiatives aimed at safeguarding the well-being and future prospects of its youth.
In conclusion, the educational seminar on early marriage in Asakyire served as a significant step forward in fostering awareness, dialogue, and action within the Bekwai Municipality. By empowering community members with knowledge and resources, the event laid the groundwork for concerted efforts to combat the entrenched practice of early marriage and promote the rights and dignity of all individuals, irrespective of gender or socio-economic status.
Share Everywhere
