By Samuel Yaokumah
Kwamoso (E/R), July 9, GNA – The Ghana Education Service (GES) in Akuapem North, in partnership with the MENPHYD Foundation, has launched an advocacy and mentorship programme to inspire junior high school students to pursue education, leadership and responsible living.
The programme was organised for selected junior high school students at the Kwamoso Presbyterian Church. It aimed to inspire students to develop their potential and prepare for successful careers and responsible lives.
Participating schools included PCE Demonstration JHS, Akropong; Nana Ankobea Fakyewa School; Saforo M.A. JHS; Kwamoso Presbyterian JHS; Yensiso Methodist JHS; Korkoomu M.A. JHS; and Mampong Nkwanta JHS.
The programme was sponsored by the Member of Parliament for Akuapem North Constituency, Mr Sammy Awuku, the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Bank for Africa, and the MENPHYD Foundation.
Delivering her address, Dr. Bettina Ama Boohene Anda stated that the foundation’s mission is to empower young people to take their education seriously and work diligently toward achieving their goals and aspirations.
She highlighted the foundation’s slogan, “You Can If I Can,” explaining that it reflects the belief that every individual possesses unique, God-given talents and abilities.
She encouraged the students to believe in themselves, noting that if others have succeeded in becoming doctors, lawyers, engineers, pilots, teachers, and professionals in various fields, they too can achieve their dreams through determination and hard work.
Sharing her personal journey, Dr. Anda recounted the challenges she faced while growing up and how perseverance enabled her to overcome them.
She revealed that after completing medical school, she had the privilege of serving as the personal physician to former President John Agyekum Kufuor throughout his tenure in office.
According to her, success is not determined by one’s family background. She explained that she had known children from affluent homes who eventually failed to realize their full potential because of poor choices, including drug abuse and other harmful behaviours.
“Coming from a wealthy or middle-class family does not automatically guarantee success,” she said, urging students to remain focused and disciplined.
Dr. Anda also encouraged the students to be curious, ask questions, and seek knowledge at every opportunity. She advised them not to isolate themselves because of feelings of inferiority or fear of failure.
“If you fail an examination or struggle with a subject, do not give up. Try again,” she said, adding that she had failed some examinations and quizzes during her academic journey but persevered until she achieved her dream of becoming a medical doctor.
Mr. Laurence Dzah, Akuapem North GES Director, commended the sponsors and the MENPHYD Foundation for supporting the directorate’s efforts to mentor young people.
He emphasised the need for such programmes to become regular features on the educational calendar to continually guide and motivate students.
Mr. Dzah identified drug abuse, sexual promiscuity, gambling, and negative peer influence as some of the major challenges confronting today’s youth.
He urged students to remain committed to their studies and avoid social vices that could jeopardize their future.
He further advised students to respect the guidance of their parents and teachers, while encouraging parents to better understand the behavioural patterns of today’s youth in order to provide appropriate guidance and support.
Mr Awuku, the MP for Akuapem North Constituency, noted that today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders and stressed the importance of nurturing them with sound values, mentorship, and quality education.
According to him, failure to adequately prepare young people for leadership could have serious consequences for society.
He, therefore, called on GES and civil society organisations to continue organizing educational and mentorship programmes such as the “You Can If I Can” initiative to promote the intellectual, emotional, and social development of students.
Other speakers, including Miss Sandra and Ms Emmanuella, delivered inspiring and motivational messages, encouraging the students to share the lessons they had learned with their peers and remain committed to achieving their ambitions.
As part of the programme, each of the participating schools received 15 storybooks to enrich their school libraries and promote reading among students.
GNA
Edited by D.I. Laary/Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporting by Samuel Yaokumah
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