NCCE Partners with UNFPA and Global Affairs Canada to Combat Gender-Based Violence and Promote Adolescent Health in Keta

The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has launched a significant public awareness initiative in the Keta Municipality aimed at safeguarding adolescent health and eradicating gender-based violence (GBV). Supported by funding from Global Affairs Canada and conducted in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the campaign seeks to foster a more equitable society by addressing deep-seated social issues that affect vulnerable populations. The program underscores the critical link between civic education and community well-being, focusing on the protection of human rights and the promotion of health standards among the youth.

During a major sensitization event held at the Keta Municipal Market, Elinam Linna Bensah, the Keta Municipal NCCE Director, emphasized the necessity of creating a supportive environment for adolescents. She noted that community awareness is the first step in dismantling the stigma associated with adolescent health issues and the reporting of GBV. By bringing the conversation to a public hub like the municipal market, the NCCE aimed to engage directly with residents, traders, and local leaders, ensuring that the message of gender equality and safety reaches the heart of the community's daily life.

The initiative featured extensive discussions on the severe physical and psychological consequences of gender-based violence and the urgent need to combat violent cultural practices. Participants were urged to take an active stand against behaviors that undermine the dignity and safety of women and children. Health officials present at the event praised the NCCE’s proactive approach, noting that such educational efforts are essential for reducing the burden on the local healthcare system by preventing trauma-related incidents and promoting early interventions for adolescent health concerns.

The campaign was met with high praise from participants, who highlighted the value of receiving clear information to help transform community attitudes. As the NCCE continues its engagement throughout the municipality, the long-term goal remains the establishment of a culture of mutual respect and legal compliance regarding human rights. By empowering residents with knowledge and fostering collaboration between health officials and civic educators, the initiative sets a foundation for a healthier, more resilient, and more informed Keta.