Asakae (W/R), Dec 16, GNA- Madam Sophia Horner-Sam, the Deputy Western Regional Minister, on Tuesday called on parents to protect their children from environmental hazards, exploitative labour, and immoral behaviour.

She said "children need to be raised in an environment of happiness and abundance of love and care".

Madam Horner-Sam was speaking at the President's end of year get-together that more than 400 children selected from basic schools in the Shama Ahanta East Metropolitan Area.

The Ministry of Women and Children's Affairs (MWOCA) and the Ghana National Commission on Children (GNCC) organized it. Madam Horner-Sam appealed to parents to be responsible and provide the education needs of their children.

She cautioned those who deprive their children of basic education that they are retarding the human resource development of the country and creating a class society through their act.

The Deputy Regional Minister advised the children to respect and obey their parents, guardians, teachers and the elderly in the society. "You must obey school rules and regulations and be God fearing to enable you to have your peace for your studies.''

Mrs. Caroline Amegavie, the Shama Ahanta East Coordinator for Technical and Vocational Skills appealed to parents to interact frequently with teachers and take keen interest in all Parent Teacher Association meetings.

She told the children to reduce the hours they spend watching television and concentrate on their books.