The St. Peter’s Anglican Basic School in Koforidua, which has stood for a century, is now in a perilous condition.
The aging school building has developed deep cracks in its concrete and wooden pillars, and the roofs of the classrooms are in tatters despite repair efforts.
Rt. Rev. Felix Annancy, the Anglican Bishop for the Koforidua Diocese, has voiced serious concerns about the deteriorating state of the school.
“The state of the classroom building has been a source of worry for all of us. Because if you look at the structure you could see that it is not good that, anything at all could have happened. Any bad storm or heavy rain could cause a lot of damage to the building. So we are so happy that this project is coming on now. We thank the Honourable MP that he didn’t wait for something to happen before he acts”.
In response to the urgent need for a safe learning environment, the Member of Parliament for New Juaben South, Michael Okyere Baafi, has initiated the construction of a new 12-unit storey classroom block, which will include toilet facilities and auxiliary offices.
“We started working on this project about a year ago. We’ve been fighting hard to get it done. It has not been easy but by the grace of God we have been able to settle the matter and now we’ve been given the green light to execute the project. I give so much thanks to GETFUND for that wonderful gesture extended to us. Given us, the opportunity to build this structure alone is good for us. This is the center of town and this school has served a lot of people in this municipality. We can’t just look on for the school to collapse one day that can create problems for our children”
The old classroom block will be demolished to make way for the new construction, which is slated for completion within nine months.
During this period, close to 800 pupils and their teachers will be relocated to ensure their safety and uninterrupted education.
The project contractor, Umaru Isaka, expressed confidence in completing the new building on schedule, aiming to provide a more secure and accessible learning environment for the students.
“It is a 12-unit classroom block. Four down, four on the second floor, and four up making 12. I am giving an assurance. It is a nine-month project we will make sure we complete on time ” the contractor, Umaru Isaka said.
The standard of education in New Juaben South municipality has witnessed significant improvement in recent years due to special attention and investment by the Member of Parliament and the municipal Assembly.
Aside the infrastructural development, the MP has provided many interventions including organizing classes for BECE candidates, provision of teaching and learning materials, computers, and distribution of bicycles to school children in remote communities among others.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Kojo Ansah
