St. Kizito Primary ‘A’ in Bole has hosted an awareness programme aimed at educating pupils, parents and the wider community on the importance of protecting children’s rights and ensuring their well-being.
The initiative forms part of the Child Protection Initiative under the Catholic Diocese of Damango through its development wing, the Catholic Diocesan Development Organization (DACADO).
The programme focuses on educating communities about child rights, preventing abuse and encouraging children to speak up when their rights are violated.
The event took place at the school premises on February 25, 2026 with Chiefs and Queen mothers, parents, community members and pupils in attendance Speaking at the event, the Proprietor of St. Kizito Primary ‘A’ Child Rights Club, Fredrick Adu Sarfo, emphasized the need for society to recognize that children must be nurtured, protected and given opportunities to grow.
According to him, a child should never be treated as a “small adult to be used or silenced,” but rather as a seed that requires care and protection to flourish.He explained that the school promotes four key pillars of child rights which are survival, development, protection and participation.
Survival, he said, involves ensuring children have access to basic needs such as healthcare, food and clean water. Development focuses on education, play and cultural learning to help children grow mentally and emotionally.Mr. Sarfo further noted that protection is essential to shield children from abuse, exploitation, child labour and early marriage, stressing that both homes and schools must be safe spaces for children.
The fourth pillar, participation, encourages children to express their views on issues affecting them, helping to shape responsible future leaders.Project Coordinator of the Child Protection Initiatives, Koyiri Severa, explained that the programme is designed not only for children but also for vulnerable adults.
However, the current focus is on school children to help them understand their rights and how to report abuse.She revealed that the Child Rights Club at St. Kizito Primary ‘A’ has been operating for the past two years, where pupils are taught about their rights and the procedures for reporting abuse.
According to her, the programme is now being extended beyond the school to create wider community awareness.“We want parents and the entire community to understand the need to protect children. Many children suffer different forms of abuse, and this initiative is meant to ensure their rights are respected and protected,” she said.
Also addressing the gathering, the President of the Savannah Regional Queen Mothers Association, Hajia Kansawurache Veronica Bukari, commended the organizers for bringing the programme to Bole. She described child protection as an issue close to the hearts of mothers and traditional leaders in the region.She encouraged children to balance their rights with responsibilities, urging them to take their education seriously while also learning practical skills and cultural values.
She also called on parents and guardians to support children not only academically but also with proper home training.Hajia Kansawurache further stressed the importance of culture in shaping responsible individuals, noting that traditional authorities remain ready to guide young people and support initiatives that promote their welfare.
The event formed part of ongoing efforts by the Damango Diocese and its partners to create safer communities where children can grow, learn and thrive without fear of abuse or neglect.
Source: nkilgifm.com
