Parents have been urged to provide early sex education to their daughters to help protect them from defilement, sexual abuse and other harmful behaviours in society.
Madam Pearl Akpene Lumor, a Social Welfare Officer at the Department of Social Welfare and Community Development in Dormaa Central, made the call in an interview with GIFTs News.
According to her, parents should not wait until their daughters turn 18 before educating them about sexual relationships and the dangers associated with engaging in sexual activities at an early age.
She explained that many girls now begin menstruating from the age of nine and above, making it necessary for parents to begin age-appropriate sexual education as soon as they start experiencing physical changes such as breast development, widening hips and menstruation.
Madam Lumor advised parents to teach their daughters to report any inappropriate touching or sexual advances from men, stressing that no one has the right to touch or see their private parts.
She noted that early guidance and open discussions at home could help prevent girls from falling victim to sexual exploitation and peer pressure.
The Social Welfare Officer further encouraged parents to handle such conversations patiently and responsibly, since children are also influenced by their friends and surroundings.
She also raised concerns about cases where fathers and stepfathers allegedly take advantage of their daughters and stepdaughters sexually.
Madam Lumor urged mothers to take immediate action if they suspect any threat to the safety of their children, including relocating the child if necessary to prevent abuse.
Reacting to reports of mistreatment of orphans, stepchildren and other vulnerable children by relatives and guardians, she described such behaviour as cruel and unacceptable.
According to her, all children deserve equal love, care and protection regardless of whether they are biological children or not.
She stressed that children living with other families should not be discriminated against or subjected to harsh treatment, adding that society must promote compassion, respect and fairness towards vulnerable children.
Madam Lumor concluded by calling on parents and guardians to create safe and supportive environments for children to grow and thrive.
