By Daniel Agbesi Latsu
Kadjebi (O/R), Sept. 25, GNA – Madam Emma Asilevi, Kadjebi District Girls’ Education Officer, has urged parents to desist from forcing their children, particularly girls, into marriage.
She said forcing a child into marriage was a violation of the rights of the child and contravened provisions of the Children’s Act, 1998 (Act 560).
Madam Asilevi made the call during an engagement with women groups on the rule of law, women’s rights and the fight against corruption at Kadjebi in the Oti Region.
She said parents and guardians had a responsibility to protect children from practices that could deprive them of their rights, education and opportunities to develop their full potential.
“Children are assets, and every effort must be made to protect them and provide the necessary support for them to attain their full potential,” she said.
Madam Asilevi said child marriage could have serious consequences for girls, including disruption of their education, teenage pregnancy and exposure to health, social and economic challenges.
She therefore urged parents to encourage their children to remain in school and provide them with the needed guidance and support to make responsible decisions about their future.
She also called on community leaders, women groups and other stakeholders to speak out against child marriage and report cases to the appropriate authorities for action.
Madam Asilevi said protecting children required collective responsibility, adding that communities must create an environment where children could grow, learn and develop without being subjected to harmful practices.
She further encouraged parents to educate their children about their rights and responsibilities and to seek assistance from relevant institutions whenever they encountered challenges affecting their welfare.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah /Kenneth Odeng Adade