Tolon (N/R), July 9, GNA - The government is formulating policies and programmes aimed at protecting children's rights and ensuring their all round development. Alhaji Iddi-Manzah Mahama, the District Chief Executive of Tolon/Kumbungu, said this at the celebration of the International Women's Day on Friday.

The occasion, organized by the Education Directorate and sponsored by World Vision, was on the theme: "Mothers enrol and retain your girl-child in school till completion." Some of the women who participated in the celebration carried placards some of which read: "Provide the girl-child with her basic needs", "A well educated girl-child becomes a better mother", "Women and children are equal partners in development" and "Let's end violence against women".

Alhaji Mahama said in view of the numerous efforts being made by government on the education of the girl-child it would be a crime on the part of parents to refuse to send their children to school. "There should be no excuse at all since the government has put in place a programme to ensure that every child is given a good start in learning by removing all barriers to primary school entry and retention by shifting the burden of payment from parents." Alhaji Mahama said under the schools under trees and basic schools rehabilitation project, the district assembly was awarding contracts for construction of classroom blocks, offices, stores and other ancillary facilities at Lunbung-Gurugu, Namdu, Gupanerigu and Tidan Primary schools.

Madam Dawuda Nafisah, Deputy Director, Finance and Administration of the GES, expressed concern about the low enrolment and high drop out rate of the girl-child in schools in the district and called on parents to desist from removing their female children from school to give them into marriage. She also urged women not to allow socio-cultural factors from prevent them from participating in decision making in their communities.