By King Amoah, Kumasi.
The Ashanti region, a vibrant hub of Ghanaian culture and history with a population of over 5.4 million, faces a concerning trend, a decline in youth interest in education.
Despite the government’s efforts through the Free Senior High School (FSHS) policy, widespread disillusionment threatens to undermine educational progress in the region.
An in-depth investigation by this correspondent reveals a complex web of challenges contributing to this apathy. These include:
Inadequate Infrastructure, Dilapidated school buildings, insufficient accommodation, and a lack of proper recreational facilities contribute to an uninspiring learning environment.
Teacher Absenteeism and Low Moral: Irregular teacher attendance and a perceived lack of commitment, often attributed to inadequate incentives and support, disrupt the learning process.
Ineffective Learning: Shortages of essential educational resources and a lack of proper supervision hinder effective teaching and learning.
Implementation Issues with FSHS: Concerns that the FSHS policy, including the introduction of the red, yellow, and green academic calendars, has inadvertently worsened existing problems and compromised the quality of education. Allegations of bribery, students indiscipline, and food diversion further erode public trust.
The report paints a picture of neglect, with authorities seemingly unresponsive to the pressing needs of the education sector, often citing financial constraints as justification for inaction.
Seeking Solutions: Insights from Education Stakeholders
In response to this concerning situation, stakeholders are proposing proactive measures to revitalize education in the Ashanti region.
Mr. Godbless Amankwaa, Managing Proprietor of God Bless Memorial International School in Kumasi, emphasizes the need for a multifaceted approach, including:
Strategic Investment in Infrastructure: Prioritizing the renovation and construction of modern school facilities.
Improved Teacher Welfare: Enhancing salaries, benefits, and incentives to attract and retain qualified educators.
Empowering Teachers:
Implementing policies that support teachers in maintaining discipline and fostering a positive learning environment.
Mr. Evans Kyei, a computer expert and Chief Executive Officer of Akoraradioonline.com, in his contribution, stresses the importance of accountability and collaboration.
Enhanced Supervision: Holding teachers accountable for students progress and ensuring consistent classroom presence.
Parent-Teacher Engagement: Fostering open communication and collaboration between parents and teachers to address educational challenges collectively.
A Call to Action:
The situation in the Ashanti region, Evans Kyei who also doubles as the Multiminds Company Ltd in Kumasi noted, demands immediate attention.
He emphasized that the future of the region’s youth hinges on the ability to create an education system that is both accessible and appealing. By addressing the challenges outlined in this report and implementing the proposed solutions, the government can transform education in the Ashanti region, fostering a brighter future for its youth and ensuring the success of the Free Senior High School policy.
Mr Daniel Abugri Environmental Journalist with a Kumasi-based Agenkwa FM in his brief observations insisted that Ashanti region, though contributes heavily to the growth of the national economy, it seems it has been neglected in the area of education.
He evidenced his claim to the continuous students demonstrations, engaging school authorities with conflicts ultimately with regards to their academic development among others an to register their protest against the government.
Ashanti region deserves better and as such government should take immediate steps to correct the surrounding the schools in the Ashanti region, Daniel Abugri asserted.
