Akua Yeboah’s account sheds light on the significant impact of the PAYDP program funded by UNFPA and Canada in Krabonso, Kintampo District. Akua was part of the Parent Advocacy Network (PARENTS NETWORK) a group of parents who provided support to the adolescent girls in the community and also to reach out to other parents. Before the intervention, the community struggled with alarming rates of teenage pregnancy, with girls as young as 13 years old giving birth and many dropping out of school, leading to a cycle of idleness and wasted potential.
The introduction of the Adolescent Girls Programme implemented by PAYDP funded by UNFPA and Canada, brought a beacon of hope to the community. Through comprehensive education on Sexual and Reproductive health (SRH), the program addressed the root causes of teenage pregnancy and its consequences. By equipping young girls with knowledge about their bodies and rights, PAYDP empowered them to make informed decisions about their reproductive health, thus reducing the incidence of unplanned pregnancies.
Moreover, the programme didn’t just stop at education; it offered practical support to ensure that young mothers and school dropouts could still pursue their dreams. Financial assistance was provided to those in need, enabling them to continue their education or acquire vocational skills. By offering training in trades such as dressmaking, hair making, and bead making, the program not only provided avenues for economic empowerment but also instilled a sense of purpose and self-worth in the participants.
Akua Yeboah said “Myself and other parents in the community are elated about this PAYDP programme because of the positive impact it has made on these girls “
The results of the PAYDP programme speak through the lives of the Empowered Adolescent Girls. Teenage pregnancy rates have drastically reduced, signaling a positive shift in the community’s trajectory. Young girls are returning to school, armed with the knowledge and confidence to pursue their academic and career aspirations. Others are finding fulfillment and financial independence through vocational training, breaking free from the cycle of idleness and dependency.
Overall, Akua’s narrative underscores the critical importance of holistic interventions like PAYDP in addressing complex social issues such as teenage pregnancy. By combining education, support, and skill-building, programs like PAYDP not only empower individuals but also uplift entire communities, paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future.