An inspection tour of Accra’s shelter homes and orphanages has been organized by the Parliamentary Committee on Gender, Children, and Social Welfare in order to gauge the success of current care initiatives and the welfare of the most vulnerable children.
The Committee’s inspections started at the Ministry of Gender and Social Protection before moving on to establishments including Save Them Young Homes, New Life Nungua Children’s Home, and Great Mission International. The Committee is chaired by Hon. Helen Adjoa Ntoso, MP for Krachi West.
Caretakers expressed grave worries during the visits over the long-term dearth of educational opportunities for special needs children, some of whom had spent more than 20 years in shelters without receiving an official education or training for a career.
It was also noted that a recurring problem is the lack of proper healthcare support for kids with autism, impairments, and chronic illnesses. Additionally, Nii Afotey Bortey II, the founder of New Life Nungua Children’s Home, stressed the significance of involving shelter children in national talent development and sports programs.
Hon. Ntoso voiced his concerns about the state of affairs and gave stakeholders his word that the Committee would present a comprehensive report to Parliament along with suggestions for prompt action.
The Department of Social Welfare should improve care services and lessen facility overcrowding, she urged.
Through its examination, which ends on May 23, the Committee hopes to impact policy changes that will safeguard and improve the lives of children who are at risk across the country.
Source: newsthemegh.com