Asuogyaman Cluster & Compassion Int. Ghana marked International Day of the African Child 2023.
Monday, June 19, 2023
Over 400 children have benefited from the 2023 international day of the African Child organized by the Asuogyaman Cluster and compassion international Ghana. The celebration was under the THEME: "THE RIGHTS OF THE CHILD IN THE DIGITAL ENVIRONMENT".
The International Day of the African Child has been celebrated on June 16 every year since 1991, when it was first initiated by the OAU Organization of African Unity.
It honors those who participated in the Soweto Uprising in 1976 on that day. It also raises awareness of the continuing need for improvement of the education provided to African children.
On 16 June 2023, ASUOGYAMAN CLUSTER AND COMPASSION INTERNATIONAL GHANA also celebrated this day to educate parents and children on their responsibilities. In consonance with the national director of compassion international Ghana Mr. Kobina Yeboah Okyere, the Global theme for this year’s celebration is (The Right of a Child in a Digital Environment), this theme is both timely and significant, given the current era we find ourselves in.
In today's interconnected world, where technology has become an integral part of our daily lives, we cannot overlook the profound impact it has on our children.
While the digital revolution has brought numerous benefits and opportunities, it has also presented significant challenges and risks, especially for the most vulnerable members of our society-the children. Compassion International firmly believes that every child deserves the right to safety and protection in digital environments.
This entails safeguarding them from cyberbullying, online predators, and exposure to inappropriate content. In addition, we must collaborate to create a secure online space where children can explore, learn, and express themselves without fear.
The day was used to encourage parents and caregivers to pay attention to the contents their children and young adults consume on the internet, as it greatly influences their growth towards responsible Christian adulthood.
On behalf of the municipal director of education (LMKM), Mr. Victor K. Badu touch on digital literacy, a topic that is crucial in our ever-evolving world, the country, and our municipality. The capacity to explore and utilize the power of digital tools has evolved into necessary skills for success in all spheres of life in an age dominated by technology and connectivity.
But the unfortunate truth is that many people still lack the expertise and knowledge needed in this field. Besides, to effectively bridge the digital literacy gap, several critical actions must be undertaken.
Firstly, digital literacy must be prioritized in curricula, ensuring that students acquire the necessary skills from an early age. Additionally, investments must be made in infrastructure to provide equal access to digital resources, particularly in underserved communities. Establishing community digital literacy centers can serve as a dedicated space for individuals to access computers, and the internet, and receive comprehensive training on various digital skills.
Addressing the public on the international day of the African Child at Kpong, on behalf of the police service Kpong District, they charge the public against child labor, child marriage, female genital mutilation, violence against children, gender-based violence, and children recruited at Ghana Arm forces. Children under 18 years do not qualify to be recruited into the Ghana arm forces in Ghana.
The work we do is very dangerous and so you must be mature enough be for you are recruited. Maltreatment of the children, not taking good care of children. Let’s all be ready to report any form of abuse we see being done to our children.
Story by: Ernest Apatsia Gakpey, Juapong.