By Michael Foli Jackidy, GNA
Dzodze (V/R), June 12, GNA – Madam Felicia Afi Ayikpa, the Social Development Officer of the Department of Social Welfare in the Ketu North Municipality, has called for strengthened collective action to protect children from child labour, teenage pregnancy and other forms of abuse that threaten their development and future prospects.
Speaking in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) to mark the 2026 World Day Against Child Labour, observed on Friday June 12, she said the annual observance, instituted by the United Nations, seeks to raise awareness on the need to safeguard children and promote environments that support their healthy growth and development free from exploitation.
She explained that child labour refers to situations where children are engaged in hazardous work or assigned tasks that exceed their physical and mental capacity, often to the detriment of their education, health and overall well-being.
Madam Ayikpa noted that this year’s theme, “Red Card to Child Labour: Fair Play for Children, Decent Work for Adults,” calls for renewed commitment from all stakeholders to eliminate child labour while promoting decent livelihoods for adults.
She said the Ketu North Municipality had rolled out a series of activities to mark the day, including radio discussions and community durbars aimed at sensitising residents on the dangers of child labour and the importance of keeping children in school.
“We have scheduled radio discussions for the coming week and community engagements to emphasise the need for parents to support their children and ensure they remain in school. Education remains one of the most effective tools for securing the future of our children,” she said.
Madam Ayikpa added that the Social Welfare Department remained open to the public to provide guidance, counselling and support on issues relating to child welfare and development.
“Our doors are open to everyone who needs information, advice or assistance on child protection issues. We encourage all stakeholders to work together to raise responsible and productive citizens, as children remain the future leaders of our country,” she stated.
Touching on teenage pregnancy, she described it as a major challenge in the municipality, noting that it continued to undermine efforts aimed at improving child development outcomes.
She said the issue was often linked to factors such as parental neglect, inadequate supervision and socio-economic hardships, which expose children to risky behaviours.
“Teenage pregnancy does not occur in isolation. Some children are left without adequate care and support, and in their struggle to survive, they become vulnerable to negative influences,” she explained.
She further noted that teenage pregnancy often disrupts the education and future aspirations of affected girls, with only a few managing to recover and continue their education.
Madam Ayikpa said the department had intensified sensitisation campaigns through schools, communities, churches and radio platforms to educate both parents and children on responsible behaviour and child protection.
“We will continue to create awareness because the effects of child neglect, child labour and teenage pregnancy go beyond the individual child and affect society as a whole,” she said.
She appealed to parents, guardians and all stakeholders to play their part in safeguarding children from abuse and exploitation.
“We are not saying children should not assist their parents or learn skills. However, such activities must be age-appropriate and should not interfere with their education, health and development. Let us all work together to protect our children and secure their future,” she added.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Benjamin Mensah