In Children's Words
Well-being and futures in Ghana
Highlights
This report explores how children and adolescents in Ghana understand well-being and envision their futures, particularly in settings marked by social, economic or environmental disadvantages. Drawing on child-centred qualitative research with children aged 12–17 years, it highlights the importance of quality education, supportive relationships, economic security, sustainable environments and opportunities to participate in decisions affecting their lives.
The findings call for better learning conditions and more practical, skills-based education; stronger support for families; greater economic opportunities and environmental sustainability; and safer and more equitable digital experiences. They also point to the need for stronger links between child protection and education services to support working and out-of-school children, while ensuring that children’s present well-being, perspectives and participation are considered alongside their future aspirations.
Suggested citation: UNICEF Office of Strategy and Evidence – Innocenti, The Khana Group and UNICEF Ghana, In Children’s Words: Well-being and futures in Ghana, UNICEF Innocenti, Florence, August 2026.
