By Opesika Tetteh Puplampu, GNA
Kasseh, Ada, Jan. 05, GNA – Madam Louisa Attah Akpoto, the Chief Executive Officer of the Divine Torch Foundation, a non-government organisation, has advised girls to prioritise education alongside developing their sporting talents.
She described education as a critical tool for empowerment, protection and long-term success.
Madam Akpoto stressed that paying attention to all subjects at the Basic Level was essential to building confidence, independence and the ability to make informed decisions, particularly for girls aspiring to careers in sports and other competitive fields.
She made the call during an empowerment session at the Girls’ Netball Empowerment Competition and HIV/AIDS Awareness Programme held at Kasseh and organised by the Naana Kakie Foundation, a non-governmental organisation focused on health and social advocacy.
She cautioned that limited education often exposed young female athletes to exploitation and abuse, noting that girls who lacked basic literacy and numeracy skills were more vulnerable to manipulation by managers, agents and other handlers as they progressed in their careers.
Madam Akpoto cited examples from sports, music and other creative industries where talented young women had suffered setbacks due to inadequate education and weak protection systems, underscoring the need for structured safeguards within talent development spaces.
She further urged teachers, coaches and mentors working with young girls to uphold high ethical standards and prioritise child protection, warning against sexual exploitation and other forms of abuse that undermined the dignity and future of the girl-child.
According to her, such misconduct discouraged young girls, eroded their self-esteem and violated their rights, stressing that safe, supportive and respectful environments were essential for girls to thrive.
Madam Akpoto encouraged the participants to pursue excellence in both education and sports, noting that empowering and protecting the girl-child was a shared responsibility that would ultimately strengthen families, communities and national development.
GNA
05 January 2026
Edited by Laudia Anyorkor Nunoo/ Benjamin Mensah