First Lady Lordina Mahama urges schoolgirls to stay confident, Reject stereotypes

The First Lady, Lordina Dramani Mahama, has encouraged pupils of St Mary’s Basic and Junior High School at Korle Gonno in Accra to remain confident and never allow societal stereotypes to limit their potential.

She gave the advice during a visit to the school on Thursday, where she also presented essential learning materials to support teaching and learning. Mrs Mahama stressed the importance of confidence, education, and self-belief, especially for young girls.

“Do not be intimidated because you are girls. Be confident in your abilities,” she told the pupils. She explained that her visit was not only in her capacity as First Lady and founder of the Lordina Foundation but also as an ambassador for the Educating Linda Programme.

The Educating Linda Programme, an initiative of the Merck Foundation, supports girls from disadvantaged backgrounds to stay in school and pursue their dreams. Mrs Mahama said the initiative is dear to her heart, recalling her own experience growing up in a humble home.

“Education is a transformative tool that changes individuals, families, communities, and nations,” she added.

Through a partnership with the Merck Foundation, twenty exceptional girls from St Mary’s R/C Girls Basic School have received scholarships from the Lordina Foundation to further their education.

During the visit, the First Lady donated various school supplies, including exercise books, pens, coloured pencils, sharpeners, water bottles, and pencil holders, to enrich the students’ learning experience.

Headmistress of the school, Patience Addy, expressed gratitude to both the Merck and Lordina Foundations for their continued support. She noted that the scholarships have motivated the beneficiaries to work harder academically.

She added that the First Lady’s presence and words of encouragement would go a long way in boosting the girls’ confidence and inspiring them to aim higher.