Nsawam AME Zion Basic School calls for action as nearby structure becomes 'smoking spot'

Parents, school authorities and community leaders in Nsawam are appealing to the government and municipal authorities to intervene after a structure located about 10 metres behind the A.M.E. Zion Basic School allegedly became a smoking spot, raising concerns over the safety and well-being of pupils.

The structure, which residents describe as a "wee base," is reportedly accessible through the school's unfenced compound, allowing people to pass directly through the school premises to reach the site.

The School Chaplain, Rev Felix Adjei, said the proximity of the structure to classrooms and play areas has become a major source of distraction, particularly for kindergarten pupils.

"The school compound is not fenced, which allows people to pass through the school grounds to reach the site," Rev Adjei said in an interview with the media on July 17, 2026.

"...because of how close the place is to the school, pupils are often distracted whenever people walk through the compound."

He described the location as a place where people frequently gather and noted that although there has been no loud music or excessive noise during class hours, the constant movement of unfamiliar people through the school compound disrupts learning, especially during break periods.

According to school authorities, the issue emerged about a month ago. They said there have been no reported incidents of sexual activity on the school premises linked to the site, but they remain concerned about the potential risks posed by unrestricted access to the compound.

Community leaders say the matter has been formally reported to the chief and elders, who have acknowledged the concerns and directed that investigations be conducted.

According to the school, representatives of the school, together with the Municipal Chief Executive, visited the chief's palace to discuss the issue. The individual alleged to be responsible for operating the site was subsequently invited for questioning.

Parents are now appealing to the Municipal Coordinating Director, Jasper Adenyo, to use his office's influence to help resolve the situation.

School authorities are also calling for immediate measures to secure the school environment, including fencing the school compound and enforcing regulations against smoking and loitering near the school.

"The school reiterates its appeal for government support to ensure that pupils can learn in a safe and undisturbed environment," a school representative said.

As of the time of filing this report, the office of the Municipal Coordinating Director and the relevant authorities had not issued a public response.

School authorities say they welcome the support of the community and the media as they continue to advocate for a safe and secure learning environment for pupils of A.M.E. Zion Basic School.

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