The Second Lady of Ghana, Hajia Mrs. Samira Bawumia has underscored the importance of girl-child education in nation-building, at the celebration of the 70th anniversary and Speech and Prize-giving Day of the Ola (Girls) Senior High School (SHS) at Ho in the Volta Region on Saturday, February 3, 2024.

According to the Second Lady, “in the context of nation development, girl-child education cannot be overstated” she asserted.

“It is the bedrock upon which we build resilient communities, innovative societies and a thriving nation.

She further argued that, “Educating a girl is not just about imparting knowledge; it is about igniting a flame of empowerment, resilience and transformation that burns through generations.

Speaking as special guest of honour at the event, the Second Lady who is noted for championing the empowerment of women and education in Ghana also praised the government’s Free SHS programme.

She noted that, “Free SHS has been a game-changer, particularly for our girls who, historically, have faced barriers to accessing education, including financial constraints.”

She said the policy has been timely because since its inception, girl-child enrolment has increased by a whopping 11 % according to available data.

In her closing remarks, Mrs. Bawumia encouraged the students to determined and committed to their goals.

She said she was optimistic about their future.

“The world, indeed, is your oyster. I have faith in your abilities to go forth and make your families and the nation proud”, she remarked.

Ola at 70

Ola SHS is an all-girls school established in Ho in the Volta Region in February 1954 by the Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of Apostles.

The school is one of the most prestigious all-girls schools in Ghana. They have churned out a lot of accomplished women, excelling in their various fields of endeavours.