Adolescent Girls’ Programme records zero pregnancies at Mafi-Kumase school

The Adolescent Girls’ Programme (AGP) has achieved a significant milestone in the Central Tongu District, with the Mafi-Kumase Comboni R.C. School reporting zero teenage pregnancies this year. This represents a substantial decline from the five cases recorded at the same institution five years ago. The programme, which was launched in 2025, is a collaborative effort between UNFPA and UNICEF, supported by funding from Global Affairs Canada. It is designed to empower young women through education and improved decision-making regarding their sexual and reproductive health.

The success of the AGP is attributed to a multi-faceted approach that engages students, parents, and the broader community. Observations from a recent monitoring tour revealed that students are increasingly prioritising their education and adopting healthier lifestyles over risky behaviours. Beyond the classroom, the programme has trained parents to become more actively involved in their children's lives, which has significantly improved family communication on sensitive topics. This supportive environment, fostered by various community-led initiatives, has been crucial in creating a protective network for adolescents in the district.

While the primary goal of the initiative is the prevention of early pregnancy, the programme also addresses the needs of those who are already pregnant. Health facilities in the district report that pregnant teenagers are increasingly opting for safe, professional deliveries and expressing a strong desire to return to school to complete their education after childbirth. Moving forward, the AGP aims to further enhance adolescent decision-making regarding sexual health and expand access to appropriate medical services to ensure these positive outcomes are sustained across the region.