A one-day workshop in Kumasi has empowered adolescents and young people with cleft lip and palate conditions to look beyond low self-esteem and aspire to leadership roles in society. The workshop provided a platform for participants to share their everyday experiences and ask questions with specialists in psychology and social work. The goal was to equip them with the skills to tackle challenges when confronted with stigmatization.
Professor Peter Donkor, a Maxillofacial Surgeon and President of the Ghana Cleft Foundation, highlighted the progress made in addressing cleft lip and palate conditions in Ghana. He noted that while the situation has improved over the past decade, there is still a need for greater awareness and education in the community to close the gap. According to Prof. Donkor, many children born with cleft lip and palate are now being brought to hospitals to seek care.
Prof. Donkor described cleft lip and palate as a deformity present at birth, which is not a curse or superstition. He emphasized that families must be supported, and that surgeries conducted have been very successful. Local surgeons have been trained and certified to provide services, and although complications may occur, they have the skills to manage them.
Dr. Josephine Mensah, Director of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Ghana Medical Center, shared her personal experience as a lady born with cleft lip and palate. She encouraged participants to build self-confidence and excel in life, emphasizing that the condition is part of them and should not define them.
Ms. Rita Adjei, Center Manageress of the Edwenase Rehabilitation Center, and Ms. Ernestina Tabi, Assistant Administrator of the Ghana Cleft Foundation, also spoke at the workshop. They encouraged participants to overcome stigma associated with cleft conditions and focus on achieving their goals.
The workshop provided a platform for participants to share their experiences and receive support from specialists and peers. The goal was to empower them to aspire to greatness and lead fulfilling lives.
The Ghana Cleft Foundation and other organizations are working to create greater awareness and provide support for individuals with cleft lip and palate conditions. The workshop is part of these efforts to promote inclusivity and empower individuals with the condition.
Key points
- A workshop in Kumasi has empowered adolescents and young people with cleft lip and palate conditions to aspire to lead and thrive in society.
- The workshop provided a platform for participants to share experiences and receive support from specialists and peers.
- Speakers encouraged participants to build self-confidence, overcome stigma, and focus on achieving their goals.
