Education officials have called on parents and guardians to refrain from sending schoolchildren on errands to purchase alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, marijuana, and other harmful substances, warning of the potential dangers such practices pose to children’s health and well-being.
Speaking at the climax of the Catholic Education Week Celebration in Dormaa Ahenkro, Nana Attah Yeboah Brobbey, Deputy Director of Finance and Administration, who represented the Dormaa Central Municipal Director of Education, Rev. Fr. Kingsley Dwamena Asante, emphasized that raising responsible future citizens is a collective effort involving parents, teachers, and the government.
He urged parents to exhibit morally and socially commendable behaviour in their homes and communities, as children often emulate their guardians’ actions.
“Parents must serve as role models and ensure their children are not exposed to harmful substances. They should not send children on errands to purchase alcohol, marijuana, or cigarettes, as this exposes them to potential risks,” he cautioned.
He also advised children to resist any parental requests that involve buying such substances, stressing that their well-being and future should be prioritized over such harmful tasks.
Meanwhile, Mr. Francis Yaw Gyabaa, Dormaa Central Catholic Schools Coordinator and Headteacher of Dormaa Ahenkro R/C ‘A’ JHS, expressed concern over parental neglect after enrolling their children in school.
He observed that some parents fail to provide adequate support for their wards, assuming their responsibility ends once the child is in school.
“Education is a fundamental key to success. Parents must remain engaged in their children’s academic journey, provide guidance, and ensure their needs are met to build a strong foundation for their future,” he urged.
Addressing concerns regarding human rights and discipline in schools, Mr. Gyabaa advised students not to misuse the ban on corporal punishment as an excuse for indiscipline.
He encouraged them to respect school regulations and follow teachers’ guidance, cautioning that a lack of discipline could negatively impact their future prospects.
The call for responsible parenting and disciplined student behaviour comes as part of efforts to promote a positive learning environment and ensure children grow into responsible citizens.
