Her Excellency the First Lady, Mrs. Lordina Dramani Mahama, has encouraged pupils of St. Mary’s R/C Girls Basic and Junior High School at Korle Gonno in Accra to remain confident and undeterred by societal stereotypes against girls.
She delivered the empowering 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 resilience in shaping the future of young girls.
“Do not be intimidated because you are girls. Be confident in your abilities,” she told the pupils, adding that her visit was in her capacity as First Lady, founder of the Lordina Foundation, and ambassador for the Education Linda Programme.
The Education Linda Programme, an initiative of the Merck Foundation, supports girls from disadvantaged backgrounds to stay in school and pursue higher aspirations. Mrs. Mahama noted that the programme resonates deeply with her own journey.
“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 said.
As part of the initiative, twenty exceptional girls from St. Mary’s R/C Girls Basic School have been awarded scholarships by the Lordina Foundation to support their education, through its partnership with the Merck Foundation.
The First Lady donated various 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 the Lordina Foundation and the Merck Foundation, noting that the scholarships have significantly motivated the girls academically. She added that the First Lady’s presence and words of encouragement would greatly boost their confidence.
The Circuit Supervisor from the Greater Accra Metro Education Office, Martha Breh, who accompanied the delegation, commended the initiative and said it would inspire the girls to pursue their dreams with determination.
One of the scholarship beneficiaries, Miss Emelia Mensah, shared her appreciation, explaining that the scholarship has eased the financial burden of school supplies, allowing her to concentrate fully on her studies.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
