625,000
Ghanaian children are not in primary school
Lack of access to education
Like in other parts of the country, children and young people in Asiakwa, and its surrounding area, are often unable to attend school. Although the number of children going to school in Ghana has increased over recent years, in this small farming community, children are often expected to contribute to household incomes.
As a result, many children do not attend school. In fact, nearly 625, 000 children of primary school age are still not enrolled in primary school. Even fewer children continue to go to secondary school. They are deprived of an education that would allow them to escape the viscous cycle of poverty.
1 in 5
Children do not develop healthily in Ghana
Children experience growth issues
One child in every five in Ghana experiences problems growing and developing healthily.
In poorer areas like Asiakwa, this is mostly caused by inadequate nourishment, frequent illness and an unhealthy environment.
Children’s brain development is negatively impacted which further affects learning at an early age, school performance and ultimately their chances in future life.
Your support makes a difference for children in Asiakwa
SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
Are supported in the community
Learn at our kindergartens and schools
90
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Are supported on their way to independence
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Sisters spending time together. They grow up with each other, and often form bonds that last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Ghana).
How your support helps in Asiakwa
Strengthening vulnerable families and communities
When parents face hardships, they can sometimes struggle to give children the care they need. SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities. Each family needs different support so that they can stay together. This support can include workshops on parenting and children’s rights. We also run trainings so that parents can get the skills they need to get a job or start businesses. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help and go to school.
Providing quality education
SOS Children’s Villages ensures that children and young people have access to high-quality education. We help them learn and develop in a safe and supportive environment. We train teachers on children’s rights and child-centered learning, so that each child can get the most out of their education. Young children spend time playing and learning at kindergarten. This prepares them for primary school.
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.
Supporting young people to become independent
To help young people become confident and independent, our local team works closely with each young person to develop a plan for their future. We support young people and also help them prepare for the labour market and increase their employment prospects. For example, young people can attend workshops and trainings run by SOS Children’s Villages. They also improve their skills through taking part in different projects with local mentors and businesses.