Ghana Enhances Child Welfare Through Strengthening Protection Systems and Menstrual Health Advocacy

In a significant push for child welfare across Ghana, stakeholders in the education and social welfare sectors are intensifying efforts to ensure the safety, dignity, and health of children. In the Adaklu District, Mrs. Susan Temley Akortia, the District Director of the Department of Social Welfare, underscored the urgent need to prioritize children's safety during a community workshop. Citing alarming statistics from a 2024 UNICEF/WHO survey regarding sexual violence against youth, she called for the establishment of robust community child protection systems. The workshop, organized by Friends of Adaklu, focused on identifying early warning signs of abuse and navigating government support schemes to provide rehabilitation and reintegration for vulnerable children. Complementing these protection efforts, Sensels School recently observed World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2026, shifting the focus to the intersection of health, dignity, and academic success for the girl child. Ambassador Rev. Dr. Abena Tay, the school’s proprietress, championed open dialogue about menstruation to dismantle the long-standing taboos that hinder girls’ education. This sentiment was echoed by mental health expert Dr. Maame Ama-Gyaa Anim, who warned that poor menstrual hygiene management often leads to broader mental health challenges. The event highlighted that without access to sanitary products and proper education, girls face significant barriers to their self-esteem and academic performance. The Ga East Municipal Education Director, Mr. Eric Saye, joined these calls for reform, praising educational institutions that take the lead in fostering inclusive environments. He noted that menstrual hygiene education is not merely a health issue but a critical component of girl-child development. Across both events, a common theme emerged: the necessity of collaborative action involving parents, health professionals, and traditional leaders. By integrating social welfare protection with health advocacy, stakeholders aim to create a comprehensive safety net that empowers Ghanaian children to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.