Her Excellency the First Lady, Mrs. Lordina Dramani Mahama, has encouraged pupils of St. Mary’s Basic and Junior High School at Korle Gonno in Accra to remain confident and undeterred by societal stereotypes that seek to limit girls.
She delivered the message during a visit to the school on Thursday, where she also presented essential learning materials to support teaching and learning.
Mrs. Mahama stressed the importance of education, confidence and determination in shaping the future of young girls.
“Do not be intimidated because you are girls. Be confident in your abilities,” she said, explaining that her visit was not only in her role as First Lady and founder of the Lordina Foundation, but also as an ambassador for the Education Linda Programme.
The Education Linda Programme, an initiative of the Merck Foundation, supports girls from disadvantaged backgrounds to remain in school and pursue their aspirations.
“This programme is very close to my heart as a woman from a humble background. Education is a transformative tool that changes individuals, families, communities and nations,” she added.
Through its partnership with the Merck Foundation, the Lordina Foundation has awarded scholarships to 20 exceptional girls from St. Mary’s R/C Girls Basic School to enable them to continue their education.
Mrs. Mahama also presented a range of school supplies, including exercise books, water bottles, pencil holders, rulers, pencils, erasers, sharpeners, pens and coloured pencils, to enhance the pupils’ learning experience.
Headmistress Patience Addy expressed gratitude to both the Merck and Lordina Foundations, noting that the scholarships had motivated the beneficiaries to excel academically.
She said the First Lady’s presence and message of empowerment would further boost their confidence and ambition.
The Circuit Supervisor from the Greater Accra Metro Education Office, Martha Breh, praised the initiative, describing it as a powerful motivation for the girls to pursue their dreams with purpose.
A beneficiary, Miss Emelia Mensah, expressed deep appreciation for the support, noting that the scholarship had relieved her of the financial burden of school supplies and enabled her to focus fully on her studies.
Source: Myxyzonline.com
