Unmonitored phone use, teacher misconduct drive teen pregnancies in Central Region
The Central Region Education Director, Dr Juliet Dufie Otame, has warned that unmonitored social media use among students is contributing to the rising number of teenage pregnancies in the region.
Her comments follow a recent report indicating that more than 30 teenage pregnancies were recorded in Gomoa Ehyiam alone over the past year.
Health officials say the situation reflects a wider trend in the Gomoa West District, with new cases reported every month.
Bernice Amoah, a senior midwife at Gomoa Ehyiam, confirmed that between 20 and 30 cases were recorded in 2024, with at least one new case reported each month.
Speaking to the media, Dr Otame noted that the problem is particularly prevalent among Senior High School students.
She urged parents to limit students’ access to mobile phones, stressing that many use them for harmful online activities.
While citing social media misuse as a major factor, Dr Otame also raised concerns over instances in which some teachers exploit female students, taking advantage of their vulnerability and lack of awareness.
“We have consistently advised parents not to give phones to students. Phones are not to be used in schools. Unfortunately, some teachers also lure these girls into inappropriate relationships. Such misconduct will not be tolerated, and any teacher found culpable will face strict disciplinary action,” she stated.
