International Needs Ghana (INGH) with support from North, South and Central Tongu District Education directorates has organised a two-day literacy training for 35 teachers from seven schools in the Volta Region. 

The training which took place from September 14-15, equipped teachers of Kindergarten (KG) 1&2 and Grade 1-3 with practical strategies in teaching and reading, using Jolly phonics approach.

In a speech to open the training, the North Tongu District Education Director, Mrs Isabella Regina Ayimey, emphasised the importance of the training and encouraged the teachers to apply the strategies acquired to enhance reading skills of their students. 

Literacy according to INGH was a fundamental human right and dignity for all. It was also a critical component to building a sustainable society. 

Mr Amos Ahiaku, Project Officer of INGH, told Ghana News Agency that the literacy training aimed at enriching and transforming the existing learning spaces as well as enabling literacy learning in the perspective of lifelong learning.

Despite progress made, literacy challenges persisted around the world. The Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) reported this year that about 7.9 million Ghanaians, most of whom are girls/women, lack basic reading and writing skills. 

International Needs therefore saw this approach as one which would contribute to enhanced writing and reading with understanding among students. 

The training was also used to mark the International Literacy Day, 2022 on the theme: “Transforming Literacy Learning Spaces.” 

Participants felt empowered with the practical strategies to make reading and writing interactive, fun and impactful for students. The participants were also provided with teaching and learning resources to aid effective delivery of the literacy lessons in the classroom

INGH supports the holistic development of over 5000 children in 11 schools in the areas of education, health and physical, life skills and social and spiritual development.