Some farmers’ cooperative unions in the Upper West Akyem district in the Eastern Region have constructed and handed over a 6-unit classroom block to the Takorase community.
The cooperatives include the West Akyem Cooperative Cocoa Farmers and Marketing Union Limited and the Takorase Cooperative Cocoa Farmers Marketing Society Limited, collaborating under a Community Action Project.
The project replaces an old, dilapidated facility.
The project undertaken is designed to foster effective teaching and learning, empowering the community’s future generations.
Takorase Community, located in the Upper West Akyem municipality, is a rural agricultural hub with a population of over 2,000 residents, predominantly engaged in cocoa farming.
However, despite its agricultural significance, the community faces notable developmental challenges.
Speaking with NET2 TV NEWS earlier, Sowah Anthony, Headmaster of Takorase District Assembly Primary School, expressed concerns about the school’s deplorable state despite its impressive academic performance.
According to him, the dilapidated facility deters newly posted teachers, hindering quality education.
The headmaster expressed gratitude to the farmers for their generous support.
He also seized the opportunity to appeal to the Ghana Education Service (GES) to provide additional teachers to support the school’s growing student population.
In his address at the handing-over event, Bernert Kwasi Adu, President of the West Akyem Cooperative Cocoa Farmers and Marketing Union Limited, noted that the new facility will enhance teaching and learning experience for both pupils and teaching staff.
He underscored that their significant investment in education demonstrates the Cocoa Farmers’ commitment to giving back to the community.
He entreated the school’s management to ensure the facility is maintained.
Frank Asiamah, Deputy Director of Ghana Education Service, Upper West Akyem District Assembly, emphasised the importance of quality infrastructure in basic schools, and commended the farmers’ unions for their support, which will enhance education for local school-aged children.
He promised that the government, through the Ghana Education Service, will provide more teachers, necessary materials, and support to ensure the school’s continued provision of quality education.
On his part, Kwakwo Amoah, Nkosuohene of Takorase, reflected on the challenges faced by the community. Undeterred, he said, the community’s plight caught the attention of West Akyem Cooperative Cocoa Farmers and Marketing Union Limited, whose support has resulted in the new 6-unit classroom block.
He requested additional support for a CHIPS compound and teachers’ bungalow, which would help address the community health concerns and further enhance the community’s development.
Story by Paul Manyo
