By Jessica Crawford | Program Specialist
Thanks to supporters from around the globe, the first Self-Help International Teen Girls Club conference “Rise Up For Your Future” was a great success!
In early July, about 230 clients of the Teen Girls Club were brought to the Sociology and Social Work department of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), where the conference was held. The program began with registration of all participants and breakfast. Students were put into five groupsmarked by colours. The groupings ensured socialization of students and easy coordination.
The guest speakers included Lieutenant Anita Asiedu Kumah from Uddara barracks, Kumasi, Miss. Bertha, a representative from Planned Parenthood Association of Ghana (PPAG), the Head of the Sociology and Social Work Department as well as student representatives, and Benjamin Kusi, Country Director at SHI.
During their presentations, students from KNUST shared their life experiences with TGC participants, encouraging them to persevere through the hardships they may experience. The students shared about similar experiences they may have encountered and how through their determined attitudes and perseverance they were able to make it to this level in life. In addition, Lieutenant Anita challenged the girls to be hardworking and humble. The Army officer assured the participants that hard work and humility are great tools that one cannot underrate in life. “I grew up at Nungua living with my strict grandmother. She taught me to be obedient, humble and hardworking and that training helped me a lot”, she said.
Miss Bertha from PPAG addressed the risks associated with teenage pregnancy. She emphasized the dangers associated with early conception, delivery and early parenting. She also discussed the various sexually transmitted infections and their negative impacts on victims.
Staff and representatives from the KNUST Sociology and Social Work department engaged the teenagers in activities related to useful tools and strategies they could use as they continue to rise to challenges and pursue their education. Benjamin Kusi added that SHI is ever ready to assist those who help themselves and that they should learn hard to achieve their dreams.
Students wrapped up the day by creating group presentations to share their take home messages and experiences. Some girls indicated that they had lots of fun during the socialization sessions. Others shared that they enjoyed the excursion and seeing the beautiful buildings and environment of KNUST for the first time. The girls explained that they have embraced education with so much enthusiasm and recommitted that they are going to continue rising up for their future, no matter what challenges they might encounter.
As a closing activity, students were asked to make handprints with paint indicating that they were not there just to listen and have fun but would also be go-getters of whatever message they are carrying home.
By Albert Amoateng | Nation Builders Corps Members (NABCO)
By Grace Marfo | Teen Girls Club Program Officer
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