By Solomon Gumah
Tamale, June 05, GNA – Pastor George Kossi-Ekao Amouzou, President, Northern Ghana Mission of the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church, has advised adolescents to eschew negative behaviours and adopt goly lifestyles rooted in biblical values and sound health principles.
He said such values were critical to the holistic development of young people and essential in shaping them into responsible citizens.
Pastor Amouzou gave the advice at an Adolescent Reproductive Health Seminar, held in Tamale.
The seminar was organised by the Danish Children’s Fund in collaboration with the Northern Ghana Mission of the SDA Church under the theme: “Empowering the Adolescent Child through Self-Awareness.”
The seminar aligned with the broader mission of the Church, which is celebrating 75 years of service in northern Ghana this year under the theme: “75 Years of Mission: Advancing Faith Transforming Communities.”
It brought together students, educators, health professionals, and community leaders to discuss vital topics including puberty and bodily changes, contraception and the prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including HIV and AIDS, menstrual hygiene, and personal care.
Pastor Amouzou, describing adolescence as a “critical phase of discovery and transformation”, cautioned the youth against engaging in behaviours that could jeopardize their future.
He said: “Reproductive health is not just about preventing diseases. It is about understanding who you are as God’s creation, valuing yourself, and making choices today that will bless your future tomorrow.”
He quoted 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 and reminded participants that their bodies were temples of the Holy Spirit and should be treated with dignity and respect.
He advocated abstinence before marriage, faithfulness within marriage, consistent personal hygiene and principles supported by both science and scripture.
He commended the Danish Children’s Fund for its longstanding partnership with the Church, noting that such collaborations were equipping young people with the knowledge and values needed to lead successful god-honouring lives.
Pastor Amouzou encouraged participants to apply the knowledge gained from the seminar with wisdom and integrity.
He said: “Knowledge is power but applied knowledge guided by Godly values is even more powerful. Say no to risky behaviours and yes to healthy, godly living.”
He offered prayers for students preparing for the upcoming Basic Education Certificate Examinations asking for God’s guidance, wisdom, and success in their academic journey.
Mrs. Alberta Maccarthy Boakye, Regional Manager for SDA Schools, appealed to parents to be more involved in the upbringing of their children by serving as positive role models and offering steadfast support.
She urged students to take full advantage of various interventions provided by government, schools, and parents to enhance their academic performance.
Miss Abdul-Rauf Suleimah, a Basic One Learner at the SDA Junior High School, expressed gratitude to the Danish Children’s Fund and the Northern Ghana Mission of the SDA Church for the opportunity to learn more about reproductive health and rights.
GNA
Edited by EricK. Amoh/Benjamin Mensah