The Upper West Region Queen Mothers Association has issued a compelling call to action, urging the Regional Minister, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MDCEs), traditional rulers, and other stakeholders to intervene and halt the upcoming “Pens Down” event in the region.
The association’s President, Fatima Gberekubo Mahama, emphasized the need to prevent children from participating in the event, citing concerns about its potential to perpetuate “moral decadence.”
“Pens Down” is an annual event normally organized as a sendoff celebration for students completing their Junior High School and Senior High School education. While it serves as a moment of socialization and celebration, the Queen Mothers Association believes that the event’s implications are harmful to the social fabric of both the region and the nation at large.
In a press statement dated August 7, 2023, the Queen Mothers Association underlined the various risks associated with such events, including violent confrontations, defilement, rape, teenage pregnancies, and the spread of sexually transmitted infections. The association contends that these outcomes frequently lead to school dropouts, thereby hampering educational progress.
The association’s stance aligns with their broader vision of fostering educational and career development for the region’s graduates. Instead of events that could promote moral decay, they encourage organizers to channel their efforts into arranging programs that empower young individuals to pursue higher education and personal growth.
The Queen Mothers Association’s concern extends beyond “Pens Down” to encompass the general state of discipline in schools, particularly within the Upper West Region. The recent attack on a teacher by students of the Wa Technical Institute prompted the association to voice their dismay over the rising incidence of disregard for authority, law, order, and property destruction.
To address this issue comprehensively, the association is calling for a collaborative effort among the Ministry of Education, the Ghana Education Service, traditional authorities, parents, and teachers. They propose a consultative dialogue aimed at reassessing the existing disciplinary code and punishment framework in schools.
This move is motivated by the belief that the current disciplinary system may be exacerbating problems rather than addressing them effectively.
Moreover, the Queen Mothers Association emphasizes the need for active engagement from non-governmental organizations (NGOs), civil society organizations (CSOs), and the media.
They see a significant role for these entities in mentoring and modeling behavior for children. By providing positive influences and guidance, these innocent and vulnerable young individuals can be shaped into responsible citizens capable of upholding moral values.
As the Queen Mothers Association continues to champion responsible development and growth in the region, their stance on the “Pens Down” event highlights their commitment to safeguarding the future of the youth while fostering an environment conducive to education, ethics, and progress.
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