National child labour durbar towards the commemoration of the 2024 World Day Against Child Labour in Ghana.
27 June 2024
Accra, Ghana, June 19, 2024 - Ghana commemorated Child Labour Day under the theme “Let’s Act on Our Commitments: End Child Labour!” The national durbar aimed to heighten public awareness and serve as a catalyst for the movement against child labour. This year’s event sought to create greater momentum for the elimination of child labour, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal, Target 8.7.
The event commenced with a welcome address from Professor Kingsley Nyarko, Director of Technical and Vocational Education and Training. He emphasized the importance of nurturing children’s potential, stating, “Children should be given the opportunity to thrive rather than toil.”
Representing the International Labour Organization (ILO) at the event was Akua Ofori Asumadu, who spoke on behalf of the ILO Director for the country office for Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and the Liaison Office for ECOWAS. In her address, Akua urged stakeholders to enhance their commitment to implementing ILO Conventions 182 and 138, which focus on the worst forms of child labour and the minimum age for employment, respectively. She stressed, “It is important to join forces to accelerate action towards the elimination of child labour as no child labour in whatever form is acceptable.”
The highlight of the event was the keynote address delivered by the Minister for Employment and Labour Relations, Honourable Ignatius Baffour Awuah. He underscored the significance of combining formal and informal education to combat child labour in Ghana. Reflecting on a drama performed by children during the event, he concluded, “Formal education mixed with informal education is key to the solution of child labour in Ghana.”
The day’s proceedings, filled with passionate speeches and engaging performances, underscored the collective resolve needed to eradicate child labour in Ghana. The event not only served as a platform for raising awareness but also reinforced the urgent need for concerted efforts from all stakeholders to protect the rights and future of every child in Ghana.