Government has neglected basic education – Clement Apaak

The Member of Parliament for Builsa South constituency, Dr. Clement Apaak, has accused the government of neglecting basic education while heavily focusing on the Free Senior High School programme.

Speaking on Class FM on July 17, he pointed out that prior to the introduction of Free SHS, the nation committed to providing Free Compulsory Basic Education (FCUBE), with the government covering the costs of basic education in a manner similar to Free SHS.

He noted that many basic schools in the country are in a dilapidated state, characterized by cracked walls, broken doors and windows, and a severe shortage of furniture.

“In rural areas, pupils often have to lie on their bellies to write due to the lack of desks,” he lamented.

Dr. Apaak revealed that for seven terms, equating to approximately two years, the government has not released the Capitation Grant to basic schools. This grant is crucial for the day-to-day running of schools, including the repair of broken infrastructure.

Despite Parliament approving funding for this grant annually, the delays in its release have created significant pressure on head teachers, he said.

“Today, one of the most dreaded appointments in the country is to be a basic school head teacher because Capitation Grants are not released in a timely manner by the government,” he stated.

He explained that these delays place enormous strain on head teachers, who are left to manage schools with inadequate resources.

Dr. Apaak entreated organizations such as the Ghana National Association of Teachers, the National Association of Graduate Teachers, and the Coalition of Concerned Teachers to confirm or deny his claims.

He further urged for the timely release of the Capitation Grants to basic schools across the country.

JKB/OGB

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