ICAND Caribbean Social Work Joins National Dialogue on Expanding Access to Education for Deaf Youth in Ghana
ICAND Caribbean Social Work (ICANDCSW) was honoured to participate in the MOSTDEF Foundation Conference held at Mampong Technical Senior High School in Ghana, an event dedicated to promoting inclusive education and expanding opportunities for deaf youth.
Bringing together students, educators, development practitioners, traditional leaders, business professionals, and disability advocates, the conference created an important platform for meaningful discussions around the theme of inclusion, empowerment, and equal access to opportunity.
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The day began with registration, an opening prayer, and welcoming remarks from school leadership and student representatives, followed by the formal opening of the conference. Participants were welcomed by the Headmistress of Mampong Technical Senior High School before hearing the purpose of the conference from Franka-Maria Andoh, Founder of the MOSTDEF Foundation and CEO of Josie’s Cuppa Cappuccino.
The program also featured addresses from distinguished guests, including Nana Akua Pebea I (Mampong Hemaa) and Nana Sakyi Kumi (Apasimakahene of Akuapem Abotakyi) , whose presence underscored the importance of community leadership in promoting education, inclusion, and support for persons with disabilities. Their messages encouraged students to remain confident in their abilities and continue striving toward their educational and professional aspirations.
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Representing ICAND Caribbean Social Work, Stephen Oppong Osei Tutu facilitated the breakout session on Access to Further Education. Working alongside professional sign language interpreters, he engaged students in conversations about higher education opportunities, scholarships, career planning, international study opportunities, and the importance of lifelong learning.
Rather than simply delivering a presentation, the session encouraged students to share their own aspirations, challenges, and recommendations for improving access to education. These discussions formed part of a broader effort to develop recommendations that will be shared with relevant policymakers and stakeholders working to improve educational opportunities for deaf learners in Ghana.
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Stephen also introduced participants to ICAND Caribbean Social Work’s commitment to global education through its international study abroad programs, cultural exchange initiatives, and community engagement activities. He encouraged students to view education not simply as a classroom experience but as a pathway to leadership, service, and global citizenship.
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Following the breakout sessions, facilitators presented summaries of their discussions to the full conference, allowing participants to learn from one another’s experiences across themes including family and societal support, employment, entrepreneurship, and further education.
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The conference was further enriched by cultural performances that celebrated Ghanaian heritage while showcasing the creativity and talents of the students. These moments reflected the conference’s central message, that every young person deserves the opportunity to learn, contribute, and thrive regardless of disability.
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The event concluded with remarks from the Chairperson, a vote of thanks, and a networking lunch that provided participants, speakers, organizers, and guests the opportunity to continue conversations, build partnerships, and strengthen relationships for future collaboration.
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ICAND Caribbean Social Work is proud to have contributed to such an impactful event and remains committed to partnering with organizations like the MOSTDEF Foundation to expand educational access, promote cultural exchange, and create meaningful opportunities for young people across Ghana and beyond.
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Through collaboration, advocacy, and education, we continue working toward a future where every student has the opportunity to reach their fullest potential.
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