Deputy Education minister celebrates Asanteman SHS's 70th anniversary with vision for education reform

In a spirited celebration marking the 70th anniversary of Asanteman Senior High School, the Honorable Professor Kingsley Nyarko, the Deputy Minister of Education in charge of Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET), delivered an inspiring address that highlighted both the challenges and triumphs in Ghana's educational landscape.

Professor Nyarko revealed that enrollment in senior high schools surged to an impressive 830,000 students in 2016, showcasing a significant leap forward in access to education. He credited the government's commitment to providing free education for underprivileged children, which has abolished school fees and opened doors for countless young minds.

He made these remarks during the 70th-anniversary celebration of Asanteman SHS in Kumasi over the weekend. Delivering his speech as a special guest on behalf of the sector minister, Prof. Kingsley Nyarko proudly announced that a staggering 10 billion cedis has been invested in the Free Senior High School initiative, leading to remarkable improvements in infrastructure at institutions like Asanteman SHS. This momentum, he noted, is being replicated across the nation as the government works diligently to phase out the double-track system.

Reassuring educators and stakeholders alike, Professor Nyarko emphasized the government's dedication to enhancing teachers' working conditions, asserting that quality education is achievable through their ongoing initiatives.

He urged all Ghanaians to recognize the long-term vision of this administration, one that prioritizes education as the cornerstone of national development.

As the celebration unfolded, attendees were left with a renewed sense of hope and determination for a brighter future—one where every child has the opportunity to thrive through quality education.

The minister acknowledged the critical role of Asanteman SHS in Ghana's development, particularly making mention of the great personalities the school has produced.

Meanwhile, the theme for the celebration was, "70 Years of Enhancing Quality Education In Ghana, the Role of Asanteman".

Touching on the theme, the minister commended the school for its role in Ghana's development. "If I have seen nothing, at least I have seen the board chair of this institution. He passed through this institution, and he is now a professor of medicine."

Apart from mentioning Professor Baffour Opoku, the minister also mentioned the current NSS director and former mayor of Kumasi, Osei Assibey Antwi, the Ashanti Regional Director of education, Dr. William Amankrah, among others as products of Asanteman.

He ended his speech by reiterating the need for people to invest in education, adding that no one invests and reaps in vain.

On his part, the headmaster of the school, Mr. Nathaniel Antwi Asamoah, emphasized the school’s commitment to quality education and its role in shaping future leaders.

He also highlighted the contributions of His Royal Majesty Osei Tutu II for the Otumfuo Education Fund, which has supported 4,000 underprivileged students in accessing higher education abroad. This initiative aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, which aims for inclusive and equitable quality education.

"With a dedicated team of 160 professional graduate teachers and 48 non-teaching staff, the institution plays a crucial role in reducing unemployment and preserving cultural heritage. Alumni such as Dr. Richard Anane and Hon. Osei Assibey Antwi were recognized for their influential roles in various sectors, showcasing the school’s legacy of producing impactful leaders."

Asanteman Senior High School’s anniversary not only celebrates its rich history but also sets a visionary course for the future, reaffirming its status as a beacon of educational excellence in Ghana and beyond.

The headmaster further thanked the various old students' associations for their immense contribution towards the school's success.

He, however, revealed some challenges confronting the school, expressing that they are going to be resolved with the aid of the old students, government, and other philanthropists.

"Though we've achieved successes so far as we've already indicated in our milestones, a school with a population of over 4000 may definitely have some challenges. In the government's effort to make the school a single track, our school getting a 21 classroom block will help in that. There is also a lack of enough accommodations for my staff. In addition, there is pressure on our water bodies and toilet facilities considering the number of students we have here.

Another challenge we have is regarding furniture. There is good news that the roads minister, Hon. Asenso Boakye, has promised to facilitate some of that, but we need more help," he revealed.

He also expressed concern over some external noise pollution disturbances emanating from surrounding areas such as lorry terminals, mechanics, among others.