The Headteacher of Siniensi Kaasa Junior High School in the Builsa North Municipality, Emmanuel Ayamboliba, has expressed concern over what he describes as the lack of commitment by some parents and guardians in supporting efforts to curb teenage pregnancy and child marriage in the Builsa Traditional Area.
According to him, despite sustained awareness campaigns and sensitization programmes aimed at keeping girls in school, certain parents continue to engage in practices that undermine these interventions and expose their children to educational setbacks.
Ayamboliba revealed that some parents are aware of the romantic relationships involving their school-going daughters but fail to provide the necessary guidance and supervision to safeguard their welfare and education.
He further alleged that some parents secretly marry off their daughters without informing school authorities, a practice that often truncates the girls’ education and diminishes their future opportunities.
Speaking on Mike FM’s Tengomisiyerika Dalong programme on Sunday, May 31, Ayamboliba noted that efforts by educators, child protection advocates, and other stakeholders to rescue students who are forced into marriage are frequently hampered by the reluctance of some parents and community members to provide information that could facilitate timely intervention.
“Some parents know the boyfriends of their daughters, while others secretly give their children out for marriage without informing the school. In some cases, people are unwilling to provide information that could help rescue students who have been forced into marriage,” he stated.
The headteacher emphasized that the fight against teenage pregnancy and child marriage cannot be left to schools alone, stressing that meaningful progress can only be achieved through a coordinated effort involving all stakeholders.
He therefore called on parents and guardians, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organizations, community-based groups, and government agencies to strengthen their commitment to protecting children and promoting education.
According to him, teenage pregnancy and child marriage remain major threats to the education, health, and development of many girls in the area, making it imperative for communities to unite in addressing the challenge.
Ayamboliba urged parents to place greater value on the education and well-being of their children and to work closely with schools and relevant authorities to ensure that every child has the opportunity to complete their education and realize their full potential.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the school to supporting initiatives that empower children, particularly girls, to stay in school and build brighter futures for themselves and their communities.
Mike 105.3FM I Navrongo | Edmond Kwaching Agwaazeh
