THE 2024 DAY OF THE AFRICAN CHILD.

The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, through the Department of Children, announced the commemoration of the 2024 Day of the African Child on Thursday, June 20, 2024.

This annual event honors the students of Soweto, South Africa, who protested against segregation and ill-treatment of black children in schools.

Established in 1991 by the Organization of African Unity (now the African Union), the event promotes the recognition of children’s rights at all levels.

The 2024 theme, “Education for all children in Ghana: Improving access for all,” aims to elevate the discussion on children’s right to education and to identify measures ensuring every child benefits from quality education. On Thursday, June 20 2024, the Department of Children, under the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection (MoGCSP), commemorated the 2024 Day of the African Child. The event, themed “Education for all children in Ghana: Improving access for all,” emphasized the importance of achieving inclusive and quality education for every child in the nation.

Honorable Dakoa Newman, Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, delivered the keynote address, underscoring the necessity of inclusive education. She highlighted that education is a fundamental right essential for children’s development and future success.

The Minister acknowledged the challenges in ensuring equal access to quality education, emphasizing the need to address disparities based on gender, disability, and other factors.

Her speech outlined specific goals: promoting inclusive education, improving educational infrastructure, addressing disparities, and enhancing the quality of education. She expressed hope that the Day of the African Child would inspire efforts towards achieving these goals, contributing to a brighter future for all Ghanaian children.

Dr. Afisah Zakariah, Chief Director at the MoGCSP, welcomed participants and emphasized the importance of guaranteeing quality education for every child, regardless of financial situation, location, or physical capabilities.

She highlighted the progress made in education, such as free Senior High School (SHS), Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programmes, and Free Compulsory Universal Basic Education (FCUBE).

The Chief Director called for a renewed commitment to overcoming ongoing challenges to ensure all children have access to high-quality education, healthcare, and a secure environment.

The event featured messages of solidarity from key sponsors, including Plan International Ghana, UNICEF, International Needs Ghana, World Vision, and Plan International.

Representatives from these organizations stressed the importance of collaboration in achieving educational equity.

Participating schools included Accra High School, Dzorwulu Special School, Osu Presbyterian Cluster of Schools, Mampong School for the Deaf, and God’s Garden Montessori School.

The celebration honored the memory of the children involved in the Soweto Uprising of 1976 and underscored the significance of children’s rights across Africa.

Source: MoGCSP