The vetting of Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, the Gender Minister-designate, is currently underway before Parliament’s Appointments Committee.
During her session, she addressed critical issues related to social welfare and education, pledging to improve key programs under her ministry to better serve vulnerable groups, especially women and children.
Commitment to Enhancing the School Feeding Program
Responding to questions on the School Feeding Program, Dr. Lartey described it as a vital initiative that has positively impacted school enrollment and retention rates across the country.
However, she acknowledged the need for improvements, particularly in the quality and nutritional value of the meals provided to students.
“The School Feeding Program is good, but there is room for improvement.
My ministry will work closely with stakeholders to enhance the quality of food served to our children, ensuring it meets the highest nutritional standards,” she stated.
She emphasized that improving the program would not only contribute to the physical and mental well-being of students but also encourage more children to attend and stay in school, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
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Provision of Sanitary Pads for Female Students
Dr. Lartey also outlined her ministry’s plans to address menstrual hygiene challenges faced by female students, especially in deprived areas.
She noted that the lack of access to sanitary pads is a significant barrier to education for many girls, often leading to absenteeism and, in some cases, dropout.
“My ministry will ensure that sanitary pads are made available to female students, particularly in deprived communities.
This initiative will help to keep our girls in school and contribute to their overall empowerment,” she said.
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