Chief and MP highlight infrastructure needs as OPASS commemorates 65th anniversary

Correspondence from Eastern Region

Ofori Panin Senior High School (OPASS) is grappling with a burgeoning student population and its Chief, Dr Barimah Kwabena Awuah Parker I, has made a passionate appeal for stronger stakeholder support to alleviate the mounting infrastructure challenges.

The call was made on Saturday, November 15, 2025, during the school’s 65th Speech and Prize-Giving Day, where Dr Parker I, the Chief of Sokode-Juaso and an old student, served as Guest of Honor.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Barimah Kwabena Awuah Parker I, emphasised the critical need for parents, teachers, alumni, and the government to collaborate effectively to tackle the school's expanding infrastructure deficit.

He underscored the importance of discipline and character formation, describing them as essential pillars for nurturing responsible citizens and future leaders.

Weighing in on the national discourse surrounding student hairstyle regulations, the chief affirmed that the issue is primarily about respect for rules and order, rather than mere appearance.

Demonstrating his commitment, Dr Barimah Kwabena Awuah Parker I, generously donated GH¢50,000 to bolster the school's fundraising initiatives.



Adding his voice to the appeal, Nana Kwame Ampaw Addo Frempong, the Member of Parliament for the Abuakwa North constituency, reaffirmed that discipline and strong values are foundational to producing responsible future leaders.

He highlighted significant investments made in OPASS by the previous NPP government, which saw the initiation of several infrastructure projects aimed at expanding facilities and enhancing academic performance.

Frempong urged the current NDC government to prioritise the continuation and completion of these projects, support abandoned works, and back new developments to adequately meet the school's increasing student intake and evolving needs.

The MP also contributed GH¢10,000 to the school's development agenda, pledging his continued advocacy in Parliament for improved student welfare, infrastructure, and the overall academic environment.

Speaking on the sidelines of the ceremony, Ernest Antwi Gyimah, the Headmaster of OPASS, expressed profound concern over the escalating congestion within the school due to inadequate facilities.

He detailed shortages of essential items such as bunk beds and desks, further compounded by the presence of abandoned dormitory blocks and staff bungalows. These issues, he noted, have significantly worsened accommodation and classroom pressure as student intake continues to rise.

In a proactive move to enhance campus safety and monitoring, Ernest Antwi Gyimah announced the installation of CCTV cameras as part of "Phase 1" of a security improvement project, aiming to strengthen surveillance and ensure a safer learning environment for all.

Ernest Antwi Gyimah also took the opportunity to commend the 1999 year group of alumni for their consistent support in addressing urgent school needs. He revealed that despite numerous letters submitted to relevant authorities requesting assistance, the 1999 alumni group has repeatedly stepped in to provide crucial aid to the school during critical moments.

The momentous event was chaired by Bishop Asante Marfo Ahenkorah, a distinguished Chartered Accountant and Insurance Broker. Dignitaries in attendance included Nana Brempomah Amoafoa II, Akyem Ati Queen Mother; Nana Akosua Nyarkoa Anim, Krontihemaa of Sokode-Juaso; Grace Adza-Wude, Municipal Education Director; Rev Yaw Korananteng, OPOSSA President; a representative of the Eastern Regional Minister; and the Abuakwa North Municipal Chief Executive.