TECHIMAN: Nearly 80,000 girls between the ages of 12 and 17 in Ghana are trapped in forced marriages, according to the 2022 report by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS). The report highlights a significant issue impacting young girls nationwide, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted interventions. According to Ghana News Agency, Mrs. Angella Kangah, the Bono East Regional Director of the Department of Children, revealed these statistics while addressing students at the Bethel International School Complex during the International Day for the Girl-Child event in Techiman. She also noted that about 250,000 girls aged six to 14 are not attending school. Mrs. Kangah called for increased government investment in girl-child education to address these challenges. Mrs. Kangah highlighted the potential of girls and urged parents, stakeholders, and development partners to collaborate with the government to enhance educational opportunities for girls. She stressed the importance of supporting girls to reach their f ull potential and encouraged them to build confidence. Madam Evelyn Yawa Bansah, the Bono East Regional Director of the Department of Social Welfare, echoed these sentiments. She advised girls to focus on their studies to achieve their career goals and warned against engaging in activities that could jeopardize their futures.