The Tourism Society of Ghana (TOSOGHA), in collaboration with Williamson Media Group, She Empowerment Global, and Grace Compassion Foundation, has made a significant donation to the Osu Presbyterian Girls Basic School in Accra. The donation includes feminine hygiene products and Liberty Cards for the students. This initiative is part of TOSOGHA's efforts to promote tourism education among young people and support the educational and personal development of girls.
According to Mr. Joseph Armah Amartey, Executive Director of TOSOGHA and Youth Tourism Ambassador for Ghana, the initiative aligns with the society's mandate to establish tourism clubs in schools nationwide. The Osu Presbyterian Girls Basic School, which has a tourism club, is one of the schools that have benefited from the support of Dr. Cheryl Polote Williamson, who has adopted the school. Dr. Williamson's support includes providing feminine hygiene products to address challenges that might prevent girls from attending school during their menstrual periods.
TOSOGHA has introduced the Liberty Card as a travel companion for members of its tourism clubs nationwide. This card allows students to visit selected tourism attractions in partnership with TOSOGHA free of charge. The initiative aims to encourage young Ghanaians to develop patriotism, appreciate the country's tourism resources, and promote domestic tourism. By doing so, TOSOGHA seeks to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Ghana's cultural and historical heritage among the youth.
Dr. Cheryl Polote Williamson, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Williamson Media Group, LLC, expressed her commitment to supporting the development of the Osu Presbyterian Girls Basic School, which she adopted about two years ago. Her support extends beyond the donation of sanitary products and Liberty Cards to include providing books, meals, and other resources. She also plans to visit about seven to 10 schools during her next visit to Ghana on October 19 to extend her support to more students.
Dr. Williamson emphasized the importance of education in unlocking the future potential of the students. She believes that by providing them with the necessary resources and support, they can pursue their dreams and make a positive impact in their communities. Her ultimate goal is for every student to have a Liberty Card, enabling them to explore Ghana's tourism attractions, learn about its history and culture, and develop a deeper appreciation for their heritage.
Mr. Seth Ocran, President of the Ghana Tourism Federation (GHATOF), commended TOSOGHA's efforts to introduce young people to tourism and encourage them to appreciate Ghana's culture and heritage. He emphasized the need for collaboration between academia and industry to identify the skills students will require in the future, particularly in view of developments in Artificial Intelligence (AI). Mr. Ocran also called for a review of the education curriculum to prepare students for changing employment opportunities.
Mr. Ocran urged tourism stakeholders to collaborate to make domestic tourism more affordable for young people. He suggested that such collaboration would enable students to travel during vacations, experience Ghana's diverse cultures, and learn about the country's heritage from traditional authorities and other custodians of culture. GHATOF will continue to support initiatives that connect tourism stakeholders and encourage young people to participate in tourism, ultimately contributing to the development of the sector.
Key points
- The Tourism Society of Ghana donates hygiene products and Liberty Cards to Osu Presbyterian Girls Basic School.
- The initiative aims to promote tourism education and support the development of girls.
- The Liberty Card allows students to visit selected tourism attractions free of charge.
