Tamale: Pastor George Kossi-Ekao Amouzou, President of the Northern Ghana Mission of the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church, has called on adolescents to avoid negative behaviors and embrace godly lifestyles that are grounded in biblical values and sound health principles. He emphasized that such values are crucial for the holistic development of young people and are essential in shaping them into responsible citizens.
According to Ghana News Agency, Pastor Amouzou made these remarks at an Adolescent Reproductive Health Seminar held in Tamale. The seminar was organized by the Danish Children’s Fund in collaboration with the Northern Ghana Mission of the SDA Church under the theme: ‘Empowering the Adolescent Child through Self-Awareness.’ This event aligns with the Church’s broader mission, which is celebrating 75 years of service in northern Ghana this year under the theme: ’75 Years of Mission: Advancing Faith Transforming Communities.’
The seminar gathered students, educators, health professionals, and community leaders to discuss important topics such as puberty and bodily changes, contraception and the prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including HIV and AIDS, menstrual hygiene, and personal care. Pastor Amouzou described adolescence as a ‘critical phase of discovery and transformation’ and warned the youth against engaging in behaviors that could jeopardize their future.
He stated, ‘Reproductive health is not just about preventing diseases. It is about understanding who you are as God’s creation, valuing yourself, and making choices today that will bless your future tomorrow.’ Quoting 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, he reminded participants that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and should be treated with dignity and respect. He also advocated for abstinence before marriage, faithfulness within marriage, and consistent personal hygiene, principles supported by both science and scripture.
Pastor Amouzou praised the Danish Children’s Fund for its longstanding partnership with the Church, noting that such collaborations equip young people with the knowledge and values needed to lead successful, god-honoring lives. He encouraged participants to apply the knowledge gained from the seminar with wisdom and integrity, stating, ‘Knowledge is power but applied knowledge guided by Godly values is even more powerful. Say no to risky behaviors and yes to healthy, godly living.’
He also offered prayers for students preparing for the upcoming Basic Education Certificate Examinations, asking for God’s guidance, wisdom, and success in their academic journey. Mrs. Alberta Maccarthy Boakye, Regional Manager for SDA Schools, appealed to parents to be more involved in the upbringing of their children by serving as positive role models and offering steadfast support. She urged students to take full advantage of interventions provided by the government, schools, and parents to enhance their academic performance.
Miss Abdul-Rauf Suleimah, a Basic One Learner at the SDA Junior High School, expressed gratitude to the Danish Children’s Fund and the Northern Ghana Mission of the SDA Church for the opportunity to learn more about reproductive health and rights.