Code of conduct to check child abuse developed

Over the years, there have been conscious efforts to create awareness among Ghanaians to uphold fundamental human rights and not to encourage any form of abuse, whether physical, verbal or emotional.

One area which needs to be supported to promote this abuse-free society is the schools. 

As part of its contribution to get teachers, parents and pupils to kick against all forms of abuse, the management of Unique Child Academy at Haatso in Accra has developed a code of standard practice to guide pupil - teacher relations at the basic level.

Included in the code of conduct are provisions which prevent touching or speaking to a child in a sexual manner, striking a child, spanking, slapping, humiliating, ridiculing or any action that threatens children and which can leave them with emotional or physical scars.

Radio Ghana has been finding out more about this standard of practice adopted by the Unique Child Academy and what other educational institutions can learn from it.

First, the head of Academic Affairs of the School, Mrs. Diana Obeng-Ghanem gives an overview of the code of practice and its role in child development.

A Child Protection Officer, Peter Mensah also shared some thoughts on how to imbibe the observance of human rights issues in children.

A Social Development Consultant, and Executive Director of Philip Foundation Programme, Boateng Mensah ,who crafted the standard of practice for the school, said preparing children for responsible adult life calls for understanding, tolerance, and friendship at home, school and the community in general.

GBC