GMD-UEW Intensifies Efforts to Combat Child Labour Through Outreach Programme
The Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) commemorated the 2026 World Day Against Child Labour with an educational outreach programme at Osubonpanyin/Ateitu Basic School in Winneba.
The initiative aimed to raise awareness about child labour and promote children's rights, education and wellbeing.
The programme brought together pupils, teachers, university officials and child rights advocates to educate children on the dangers of child labour, distinguish harmful labour from age-appropriate household responsibilities and encourage the protection and development of children.
Welcoming the UEW delegation, Mrs. Mercy Duckson, the Headmistress of Osubonpanyin/Ateitu Basic School, described the initiative as timely and relevant, particularly in communities where children often face pressures that compete with their education. She urged pupils to pay close attention to the discussions and make informed choices that support their future aspirations.
Addressing participants, Ms. Patricia Kaitoo, the Acting Director of GMD-UEW, reaffirmed UEW's commitment to advancing child protection, social justice and educational development through advocacy and community engagement. She noted that the World Day Against Child Labour serves as an important reminder of the need to eliminate practices that deprive children of their education, health, dignity and opportunities for growth.
According to her, addressing child labour requires the collective efforts of parents, teachers, community leaders and institutions. She encouraged pupils to remain focused on their education and called on stakeholders to create supportive environments that enable children to thrive.
Resource persons from the Centre for Conflict, Human Rights and Peace Studies led discussions on child labour and child protection.
Prof. Harrison Golo, the Vice-Dean of the Centre for International Programmes, explained that child labour involves work that interferes with a child's education, health, safety or overall development. He clarified that while children may assist with age-appropriate household responsibilities, activities that expose them to danger, force them to miss school or undermine their wellbeing constitute harmful child labour.
He stressed that education remains one of the most effective tools for breaking the cycle of poverty and urged pupils to prioritise their studies while encouraging parents and guardians to support children's academic progress.
Delivering the second presentation, Rev. Fr. Dr. Linus Nangwele highlighted the shared responsibility of families, schools, religious institutions and communities in protecting children from exploitation. Drawing on Christian, Islamic and African traditional values, he emphasised that children must be nurtured, protected and given opportunities to realise their full potential.
He encouraged pupils to report cases of abuse or exploitation to trusted adults and school authorities. He noted that child protection requires vigilance and cooperation from all members of society.
As part of the outreach, the UEW team donated educational materials, including books, mathematical sets, pencils and erasers, to support teaching and learning at the school.
Expressing gratitude on behalf of the school, Mrs. Mercy Duckson said the programme had helped clarify misconceptions about child labour while equipping pupils with practical knowledge on how to identify and respond to situations that threaten their wellbeing.
The initiative forms part of UEW's broader commitment to community engagement and social responsibility, reinforcing the University's efforts to promote children's rights, quality education and safer environments for the holistic development of young people.
