The question of where street-connected children belong in society undoubtedly reflects the poor handling of their issues in high places. As children, Article 28 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana states that “every child has the right to the same measure of special care, assistance, and maintenance as is necessary for its development.” The power of protection and care does not only lie with the community but also with the government, which holds significant power to institute policies that change the narrative around street-connected children. Education and healthcare are significant pathways to ensuring that street-connected children belong, but they have not significantly benefited from them.
Although access to free formal education has been implemented for basic and high school, it is difficult for street-connected children to participate without fulfilling their basic needs and material costs. Hence, they have become pessimistic about their future, relying on what each day brings. In healthcare, the same can be said about access to the NHIS card, which ensures their healthcare is catered for but has not been easily accessible.
These loopholes have been addressed by the Starlight Foundation and Adamfo Ghana’s Menso Meka Ho Bi, which provides comprehensive scholarships to children in street situations. These scholarships cater to tuition and basic needs such as food, stationery, and health-related issues, giving these children a sound mind to thrive in the classroom. Additionally, the Save a Life project has delivered NHIS cards to numerous children in deprived communities to avoid instances where they turn to the street for help.
The roles played by the government must go beyond rescue missions and policy writings that never see the light of day. As a matter of urgency, the government must focus on initiatives and collaborations on streetism at the grassroots level through education and healthcare. Together, let us build a community where every child belongs and is not left behind regardless of their circumstances.
#LetsTalkAboutThem #YENHOHIA #TheStreetMatters #RepresentationIsTheWay #WeMatterToo #StreetConnectedChildren #Inclusivity #SocialJustice #StarlightFoundation #TransformingLives #CommunityImpact
