Adaklu DCE Jerry Yao Ameko Urges Shift to Modern Parenting and Collaborative Child Protection

Mr. Jerry Yao Ameko, the Adaklu District Chief Executive (DCE), has called on community leaders and parents to embrace modern parenting techniques to ensure the holistic development and protection of children. Speaking at a training workshop organized by UNICEF for the Adaklu District Child Protection Committee, the DCE emphasized that traditional authoritarian models are increasingly insufficient in the face of contemporary challenges. He advocated for a paradigm shift toward an approach rooted in emotional intelligence and collaborative problem-solving, aimed at building stronger, more communicative bonds between parents and their children.

The workshop, organized in partnership with local development departments, focused on equipping committee members with specialized toolkits for child protection and adolescent safety. Mr. Ameko highlighted the transition from demanding absolute obedience to a framework based on mutual respect and mentorship. By fostering an environment where adolescents feel heard and understood, the DCE argued that families could better navigate the complexities of puberty and the various risks young people face. He urged parents to move away from being purely authoritative figures and instead become active mentors who guide children through open dialogue.

Beyond emotional development, the training addressed critical safety concerns including child trafficking, physical abuse, and the general welfare of vulnerable children in the district. The DCE pointed out that inadequate parental supervision and a breakdown in communication often create vacuums that lead to rights violations and expose children to predatory elements. The Adaklu District Child Protection Committee was tasked with being frontline advocates against these abuses, with a specific mandate to safeguard children’s rights and intervene in cases of neglect or exploitation.

Concluding the session, Mrs. Susan Akortia, the District Director of Social Welfare, expressed appreciation for the support provided by UNICEF in organizing the intensive training. She reaffirmed the committee's commitment to prioritizing child welfare and implementing the practical strategies and toolkits discussed during the session. As the Adaklu District moves forward with these initiatives, the focus remains on empowering community leaders to foster a safer, more nurturing environment that respects the rights of the child while preparing them for the challenges of the modern world.