By Tilda Acorlor
The Girls for Goals initiative, a pioneering project promoting gender equality through sports, education, and healthy living, has successfully concluded at Adaklu Senior High School in the Volta Region.
The event, which was attended by students and community stakeholders, featured a student forum as well as community engagement sessions.
Key speakers included Vera Abena Addo, Programme Officer at the Centre for Democratic Development; Marian Mensah, Director of Legal Affairs at the Ghana Football Association (GFA); Fafali Dumehasi, former Black Queens goalkeeper; and Malcolm Fraizer Appeadu, Director of the GFA Foundation. They inspired the students with their insights and personal experiences.
Marian Mensah highlighted that every profession can contribute to the football ecosystem and encouraged students to explore various career paths within the sport.
Malcolm Fraizer Appeadu explained that the Goals4Girls project is a joint initiative by FIFA, La Guilde, and GIZ, aimed at empowering young girls to reach their full potential through football, education, and mentorship.
The team also engaged community leaders, stakeholders, and parents to discuss the importance of supporting children’s participation in sports. They emphasised the numerous opportunities that sports can provide for children’s personal development and future careers.
Traditional leaders were encouraged to establish football teams to promote youth development through the sport, creating opportunities for young people to grow and thrive.
Former Black Queens goalkeeper and current team manager of the Black Princesses, Mrs. Fafali Dumehasi, shared her remarkable journey. She began her football career in the region with Ghatel Ladies and Volta Amalgamated Ladies before joining Police Ladies FC. She spoke passionately about how football has transformed her life and opened doors, including the opportunity to become a police officer.
Marian Mensah, Director of Legal Affairs at the GFA, mentioned that every profession can contribute to the football ecosystem, encouraging students to explore various career paths.
Vera Abena Addo urged students to take their studies seriously, cultivate determination, and strive to become individuals who contribute positively to society.
“Take your studies seriously. Remember that dedication is key to achieving your goals. You should be dedicated, work hard, and show commitment,” she said.
The Headmaster of Adaklu Senior High School, Mr. Seth Amewo, expressed his support for the Girls for Goals programme. He encouraged girls to participate in football so they can become champions and role models, just like Mrs. Fafali Dumehasi Blankson.
The event also featured mixed football drills, promoting inclusion, equality, skill development, teamwork, and mutual respect.
Adaklu Senior High School received footballs and branded items from sponsors to ensure the project’s impact endures.
The Girls for Goals initiative is a collaborative effort involving the GFA, FIFA, La Guilde, GIZ, and other local partners. It has empowered young girls and boys in the Keta Municipality and Adaklu District, reaffirming the GFA’s commitment to youth empowerment and gender parity in football.
