An internationally renowned human potential expert, Dr. Verna Cornelia Price, says with the right mentorship, leadership and support, the Ghanaian child will be able to climb higher on the academic ladder.
She made this observation during a one-day visit to the Afari Presbyterian Basic School near Nkawie in the Atwima Nwabiagya South municipality of the Ashanti Region, as part of the African tour of delegation from the ‘Power of People Leadership’ and ‘Girls Taking Action (GTA)’ organisations.
These organisations are committed to providing leadership, mentorship, empowerment and education for girls and boys to succeed.
Speaking in an interview with journalists after interacting with the pupils, Dr. Price praised the children’s eagerness to learn and stressed a need for serious mentorship to help them progress academically.
She noted the dedication and seriousness exhibited by children in Ghanaian schools, highlighting the importance of leadership, mentorship, and guidance to aid their academic journey.
She further indicated that the organisations have had programmes running in Ghana since 2019, both in person and virtual – adding that these mentorship and training programmes have yielded positive changes in the children they mentored.
Dr. Price indicated that apart from the new knowledge and understanding, mentorship, and resources given to children, the organisation also provided educational sponsorships for advanced learning.
“Our commitment to transforming the lives of these young girls from abject poverty to a life filled with purpose remains unwavering. Through education, mentorship and skill development, we aspire to empower them to break the cycle of poverty and pursue meaningful, purposeful lives.
“In the year 2023, GTA made a significant impact on the lives of 200 students in the region. This broadened outreach underscores our dedication to reaching and positively influencing a larger community, creating a ripple-effect of empowerment and education,” she noted.
Physical resources provided include learning materials such as laptops, books, journals, backpacks, sanitary products and underwear.
The organisations are also keen on mentoring adults to become better mentors to the young ones.
Dr. Price then urged the children to develop love for their communities, adding that even after studies abroad they should go back to their communities to impart theit knowledge and impact the lives of others.
Headteacher, Afari Presbyterian Basic School, Reverend Francis Afum Agyei commended the organisation for its positive contributions to societal development.
He particularly appreciated the organisation’s pledge to provide 30 laptop computers for the Afari community and stock the school’s library with books.
Rev. Agyei said the computers will help improve teaching and learning information communication and technology in the school.