GES warned against negation of educational reforms

Accra, Nov. 1, GNA - Mr. Samuel Bannerman-Mensah, Director General of the Ghana Education Service on Thursday cautioned against the institution of levies and other demands that might negate the idea of making education accessible and affordable to all. He said the new educational reform allowed community participation in the administration of schools and that nothing should be done to negate its success.

He said community participation did not relief government of its constitutional obligation as, "Government is still committed to the provision of the necessary facilities to ensure quality education delivery across the country". Mr Bannerman-Mensah, who was launching in Accra the 40th anniversary of Leklebi Senior High School in the Hohoe District of the Volta Region noted that government had taken stock of the specific needs of the programme and would therefore ensure its provision to make it a success.

The celebration, which is under the theme: 'Marching Onwards to Academic excellence' would be climaxed with a durbar on June 21, 2008. Mr Bannerman-Mensah said, as much as the programme allowed community and heads of schools to take ownership and manage the schools, they should not unduly interfere in the administrative process. He urged parents to be critical about the education of their children and give them the needed support to unearth their potentials. Mr Thomas Odikro, Head Master of LESEC said the school which had a current population of 405 students, 19 teaching and 26 non teaching staff was faced with numerous problems such as accommodation, school bus, boarding facilities and called on government to help transform its into a model school.

He lauded the contributions and support of some individuals who had helped to bring the school to its current state. Mr Joseph Amennowode, Member of Parliament for Hohoe South called on the old students of the school to channel their resources into giving the school a facelift.