“Leaving no one behind” is the central, transformative promise of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals and in fulfillment of this promise, UNFPA partnered Ecobank Ghana and Tobinco group to present dignity kits, protective equipment against the novel coronavirus disease as well as thermometers, food items and many others, to the students at the Tetteh Ocloo State School for the Deaf at Ashaiman.

UNFPA, has been championing the safety and dignity through the provision of dignity kits and information and services on reproductive health as well as gender-based violence to the vulnerable including persons with disabilities during this period of the COVID-19 pandemic. UNFPA donated 300 Dignity Kits including face masks, as well as Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials on adolescent sexual and reproductive health to the school. Dr. Claudia Donkor who handed over the items and also read the speech on behalf of Niyi Ojuolape, the UNFPA Representative said UNFPA is committed to ensuring that every young person’s potential is fulfilled because they hold the future. She explained why providing young people with information on sexual and reproductive health and right is necessary and reiterated UNFPA’s commitment to supporting the school in the areas of sexual and reproductive health.

Speaking on behalf of the Managing Director of Ecobank, Mr. Dan Sackey, at the presentation ceremony, Dr Edward Botchway, Executive Director, Finance said the bank has since the outbreak of the pandemic in Ghana, the bank has supported the nation’s COVID-19 response in numerous ways.

Mr. Daniel Gyapanin, the Group Financial Controller of Tobinco Group highlighted the need to impact young lives and support persons living with disabilities. He said while there were many problems the school was facing, he was confident that the little that was donated would go a long way in helping students and building the nation.

Together, the partners provided temperature guns, assorted basic medications to restock the school’s infirmary, detergents, sanitizers, PPE and toiletries to enhance personal hygiene and support the safety of the students and teachers.

The headmaster expressed his appreciation to the three partners and promised to put to good use the items received.

The most exciting part was students who had hearing impairment sang the hymn, And Can it Be that I Should Gain in such a rhythmic manner expressing their heartfelt appreciation for the altruism of UNFPA, Ecobank and Tobinco.