Children must be in school, not on streets begging for alms

Dear Editor

I wish to draw attention to the increasing number of children begging for alms on the streets of the capital.

This has become a common sight at traffic lights, markets and busy intersections.

Many of these children should be in school, but instead they spend long hours under the hot sun and in dangerous traffic.

Sadly, they are sometimes found in the company of their parents, the same people expected to ensure that these minors spend those hours in school.

These children are usually exposed to accidents, exploitation and abuse. The situation does not only affects their future but also reflects poorly on our society.

I appeal to parents and guardians to take greater responsibility for their children.

I also urge the government, the Department of Social Welfare and other relevant agencies to intensify efforts to rescue these children, provide them with education and support their families where necessary.

I also wish to employ the ‘Samaritans’ who gives money to these children to also spend a few seconds to ask these children why they beg for alms on the street and not going to school.

Getting these children off the street must now be seen as a shared responsibility.

Every child deserves a safe home, quality education and the opportunity to achieve their full potential. By working together, we can reduce street begging and give these children a brighter future.

From Eugene Ampiaw,

Dansoman