The initiative, led by the Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Abdul Majeed Dokurgu, is aimed at supporting students as they transition into secondary education while reducing some of the financial pressure on parents and guardians.

The Assembly says the intervention is also intended to provide students with the basic materials needed to settle comfortably into school and concentrate on their academic work.

Speaking on the initiative on Wednesday 16th September 2026 at the Effiakuma Police Park, Hon. Abdul Majeed Dokurgu said the Assembly remains committed to investing in education and supporting young people within the municipality.

“We recognise the challenges some parents and guardians face when their children gain admission to Senior High School. This support is our contribution towards easing that burden and helping the students begin their secondary education on a good footing,” he said.

He added that the Assembly would continue to explore initiatives that improve access to educational opportunities and promote the development of young people in the Effia-Kwesimintsim Municipality.

The beneficiaries have expressed appreciation to the Assembly for the support, describing the items as timely assistance as they begin their SHS education.

The EKMA has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening support for education and creating opportunities that will enable young people in the municipality to achieve their academic and career aspirations.

Press Secretary to the Education Minister, Hashmin Mohammed, said the centres, located across the country, will continue operating from Monday to Friday to assist students who are yet to secure placement in second-cycle institutions.

According to him, out of the 53,887 students initially placed under the self-placement category, 33,726 have so far secured placement in various schools.

He added that the CSSPS Secretariat has received 9,948 cases at resolution centres nationwide, with 4,531 cases already resolved.

Mr. Mohammed expressed optimism that the extension would significantly reduce the number of unresolved cases before students report to school on September 18.

“We are hoping that by Friday, the numbers should be able to go down because on September 18, they will report to school,” he said.

The extension follows the Ministry’s earlier decision to allow students who were not placed during the initial exercise to use the self-placement option to select schools with available vacancies.

The intervention is expected to significantly improve access to safe drinking water for hundreds of pupils, teachers, and community members while reducing the health risks associated with unsafe water sources.

Speaking at the handing-over ceremony, Mrs. Jammie Tart Appiah-Kubi said the project reflects Caring Hands’ unwavering commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable communities through practical and sustainable interventions.

“At Caring Hands, we believe every child deserves access to clean and safe drinking water. Water is life, and no child should have to worry about where the next drink of water will come from before concentrating in the classroom. We are honoured to partner with this community and hope this borehole will serve generations of pupils and residents.”

She encouraged the school authorities and the community to cultivate a strong maintenance culture to ensure the facility remains functional for many years.

“This project belongs to the community. We encourage everyone to protect it, maintain it and use it responsibly so that future generations can continue to benefit from it.”

The Headteacher of Freeman Methodist Primary School A, Mr. Gorge Abekah, expressing gratitude on behalf of the staff and pupils, described the donation as a turning point for the school.

“For many years, access to potable water has been one of our greatest challenges. This borehole has brought lasting relief to our school. Our pupils can now focus on their studies without worrying about where to fetch water. We are deeply grateful to Mrs. Jammie Tart Appiah-Kubi and her partners for this remarkable act of generosity.”

The headteacher added that the availability of clean water would greatly improve sanitation, hygiene and the overall learning environment.

A representative of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), Mr. Benjamin Kwofie, also commended the donors for responding to a critical need.

“This is one of the most meaningful gifts any institution can receive. Beyond providing drinking water, this project will improve the health and wellbeing of our children and reduce the financial burden on many parents.”

Community leaders at Saw Mill also welcomed the intervention, describing it as a life-changing investment for the area.

The Assembly Member for the electoral area praised Caring Hands for extending its support beyond borders.

“Development is achieved through partnerships, and today’s donation demonstrates what can happen when people who care decide to give back to society. This borehole will benefit not only the school but the entire Saw Mill community. We sincerely appreciate Mrs. Appiah-Kubi and her partners for remembering us.”

Some pupils could not hide their excitement after the facility’s commissioning.

Benedicta Yeboah, a Primary 6 student, speaking on behalf of colleagues, said, “We are very happy because we now have clean water in our school. We promise to take good care of the borehole and use the water wisely. We thank our donors for thinking about us.”

The commissioning of the borehole underscores the critical role partnerships between local communities and international charitable organisations continue to play in addressing basic social needs. The project is expected to improve access to safe water, promote better hygiene practices and contribute to a healthier teaching and learning environment for Freeman Methodist Primary School A and the surrounding Saw Mill community.

The project, which forms part of the MP’s broader commitment to enhancing teaching and learning conditions, is expected to transform several aging school facilities into safer, more conducive environments for pupils and teachers.

The sod-cutting ceremony, attended by education stakeholders, community leaders, assembly members, and residents, marked the beginning of what many describe as a significant investment in the future of education in the Sekondi Constituency.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Nyameke Blay Armah reaffirmed his dedication to improving access to quality education through strategic infrastructure development. He noted that creating a conducive learning atmosphere remains critical to raising educational standards and equipping the next generation with the tools needed to succeed.

“This project is an investment in our children and the future of Sekondi. Every child deserves to learn in a safe and comfortable environment, and we are committed to ensuring that our schools receive the necessary support to deliver quality education,” he stated.

The first phase of the renovation programme will cover eight schools across the constituency. The beneficiary institutions include Old Hospital School, St. Peter’s Primary and JHS, Rev. Griffeon Primary and JHS, STMA Boundary Road School at Edankessim, Chief Ibrahim Basic School, Presbyterian School, St. Andrew’s School, and A.M.E Zion School.

The renovation works are expected to address critical infrastructural challenges, including the rehabilitation of classrooms, roofing systems, sanitation facilities, and other essential amenities necessary for effective teaching and learning.

Residents and education stakeholders have welcomed the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention that will significantly improve learning outcomes and the overall educational experience of pupils.

The GH¢3 million project adds to ongoing efforts by the Sekondi MP to strengthen social infrastructure and promote sustainable development within the constituency.

With work set to begin immediately, the initiative is expected to bring renewed hope to thousands of pupils and teachers who have long grappled with deteriorating school facilities.

The directive was announced by the leadership of the three pre-tertiary teacher unions, the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Coalition of Concerned Teachers (PRETAG) during a press briefing on Monday, May 25, 2026.

According to the unions, the strike action follows the expiration of an ultimatum issued to the Ghana Education Service (GES) and security authorities to respond to concerns raised after the incident.

“We have therefore decided to embark on the following actions to press home our demand for justice for our members who have been unjustly assaulted.”

Authorities Accused of Silence

The unions expressed disappointment that despite earlier petitions and a press conference held in Nsuaem on May 5, no official response had been received from either the Ghana Education Service or the security agencies.

“However, as of the time of meeting you today, no authority has responded to our demands,” the statement said.

The teacher groups argue that the continued silence from relevant institutions has deepened frustration among members and left the affected teachers without the support and justice they expected.

Criticism of Municipal Education Director

The unions also criticized the Municipal Director of Education for Tarkwa-Nsuaem, Madam Catherine Andoh-Mensah, over her handling of the aftermath of the alleged assault.

According to the statement, the director visited the school a week after the incident but reportedly expressed concern over the absence of the affected teachers, who were said to be receiving treatment and recovering from both physical and psychological trauma.

The unions alleged that rather than facilitating medical care and police intervention, the director reprimanded the teachers for being absent from work.

“We are very upset by the Municipal Director’s conduct because when she visited on the very day the incident happened, we expected her to have asked the affected teachers to report the case to the police, collect medical forms and seek medical attention, but she failed to do that,” the statement noted.

The unions further argued that management should have considered temporarily closing the school or relocating staff to a safer environment following the incident.

“Those actions and inactions suggest that she does not care about the welfare of teachers in this municipality,” the statement added.

Strike Action Begins

As part of measures to intensify their demand for justice, the unions announced that all teachers in the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Municipality are to wear red bands to school and embark on a sit-down strike from Tuesday, May 26, to May 31, 2026.

The leadership warned that a full-scale strike would commence on June 1 if the concerns raised remain unresolved.

“Teachers in the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Municipality will from Monday, June 1, 2026 embark on a total strike if the issues raised are not addressed,” the unions cautioned.

They also called on all teachers within the municipality to support the industrial action in solidarity with their colleagues.

“We humbly call on all teachers in the municipality to comply with this directive to help get justice for the affected colleagues. Let us unite and go by the slogan: ‘Touch One, Touch All,’” the statement urged.

Background

The controversy stems from the alleged assault of three teachers and the husband of a female teacher at Adiewoso M/A Basic School by armed military personnel. The incident has sparked widespread concern among teachers in the municipality, with union leaders insisting that those responsible must be held accountable and adequate support provided to the victims.

The planned industrial action is expected to affect teaching and learning across schools in the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Municipality unless authorities intervene before the June 1 deadline.

While this move is generally welcomed as a step toward reducing unemployment among trained teachers, it is expected to greatly affect private basic schools, many of which have relied on these graduates to maintain quality teaching and learning.

Private participation in education began with the 1961 Education Act, which allowed individuals to establish schools to supplement government efforts in expanding access to education. Despite this long-standing role, stakeholders argue that policies over the years have not adequately supported the private sector.

A major concern arises from the backlog of trained teachers from Colleges of Education who completed their programs between 2022 and 2025 but were not immediately assigned by the government. Many of these graduates found employment in private schools, often under less favorable conditions.

“These teachers were not unemployed; they were only underpaid in some cases. Private schools provided them with opportunities and helped improve teaching and learning outcomes,” said Charles Mintaba, a member of the Advocacy Committee of the Ghana National Association of Private Schools (GNAPS).

He notes that a significant number of these teachers are now expected to move into the public sector through the new recruitment drive, potentially creating shortages in private classrooms.

The issue is worsened by the inclusion of diploma and degree holders in Basic Education, who are also eligible for recruitment. Stakeholders fear that this could increase the already high attrition rate among private school teachers.

Meanwhile, recent efforts by the National Teaching Council (NTC) to enhance the capacity of private school coordinators and training officers particularly through teacher licensing programs are seen as positive steps.

However, Mintaba warned that the licensing requirement for public sector recruitment might unintentionally speed up the departure of teachers from private institutions.

Despite these concerns, private school operators remain determined.

“If you fear divorce, you will not marry, Mintaba stated, emphasizing the importance of resilience within the sector.

“We will continue to focus on delivering results with the teachers we have, regardless of how long they stay. The name of the game is supervision. This too shall pass.”

Stakeholders are urging the government to recognize private schools as key partners in education and to adopt policies that support their sustainability amid ongoing public sector recruitment efforts.

In a statement released in Accra on Friday, the Deputy Minister of Education, Clement Abass Apaak, said anyone found attacking a teacher in the line of duty would face severe consequences under the law.

The Ministry expressed grave concern over recent incidents of violence in some schools, describing the trend as unacceptable and a threat to the safety and dignity of teachers. It stressed its determination to end such acts and reiterated its commitment to supporting firm action against perpetrators.

Citing a recent case at Kade Senior High Technical School, the Ministry noted that all individuals involved in the assault of a teacher were arrested and arraigned before the Kade District Court. The accused pleaded guilty to charges including conspiracy and assault, and were subsequently convicted and fined.

The statement also condemned violent incidents during the Super Zonal Sports Competition in the Eastern Region, which reportedly involved a stabbing and an alleged sexual assault. Suspects have been arrested and are assisting police with investigations, while victims are receiving medical and psychosocial support.

At West Africa Senior High School, two students and an accomplice have been arraigned before the Adenta Circuit Court for allegedly assaulting a teacher. They have been remanded into police custody pending further proceedings.

The Ministry aligned itself with the stance of President John Dramani Mahama, who has repeatedly stated that attacks on teachers will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

Reaffirming its commitment to protecting teachers, the Ministry said it would continue to work closely with law enforcement agencies and the judiciary to ensure justice for victims and prevent future incidents.

The event, which was facilitated and sponsored by Hon Kofi Arkoe together with Hon Kuah Dickson, was mainly to appreciate and motivate both past and active teaching staff in the municipality.

Some of the items donated include four motor bikes for teachers in the remote parts of the constituency, thirteen double decker fridges, six table top fridges, and five deep freezer fridges.

The ceremony also recognised six retired teachers with citations and cash of Two Thousand Ghana Cedis each.

Mr Stephen Mensah from the Kwame Nkrumah Senior High School was adjudged the overall best teacher who received a cash prize of Ten Thousand Ghana Cedis and other items, with Mr Francis Anyan Mensah being adjudged as the first runner up who received Seven Thousand Five Hundred Ghana Cedis as well as Five Thousand Ghana Cedis presented to Ms Monica Turkson as the second runner up.

Speaking at a durbar of chiefs, clergy, teachers, students, and assembly members held at the Axim Victoria Park on Tuesday 18, November, 2025, the Member of Parliament for Evalue Ajomoro Gwira, Hon Kofi Arkoe Nokoe stated that the main motive of the award scheme is to serve a platform to empower all teachers who have dedicated their lives and time to serve in the municipality.

He expressed his firm commitment towards building a solid educational foundation for the future leaders in the constituency, adding it was the backbone of growth and prosperity.

“My office through the partnership of the MCE will ensure that our area receives the best basic amenities that would improve ourselves,” he added.

Hon Kofi Arkoe lauded the healthy working relationship between the Municipal Chief Executive and other stakeholders aimed at promoting the rapid developmental agenda of the area.

HRM Awulae Attibrukusu III, the Omanhene of Lower Axim Traditional Area on his part, commended the Member of Parliament and the Municipal Chief Executive for their brilliant and exceptional dedication and service towards the growth of the area.

He encouraged teachers to ensure professionalism and integrity in the dispensation of their duties.

“We, the traditional leaders, will continue to support such initiatives aimed at improving the working conditions of all workers, especially our teachers in the area.” HRM Awulae Attibrukusu III observed.

On his part, Hon Herbert Kuah Dickson, the Municipal Chief Executive of Nzema East Municipal, thanked all for the support and assured of his continuous dedication towards achieving the best for all.

He noted that his office will continue to partner the Member of Parliament to lobby for initiatives that will promote the development of the area.

The ceremony also recognized other teachers within the various categories such as the preschool, primary, Junior High School, Senior High School, Technical and Vocational, languages, non-teaching, STEM, education administration as well as special dedication awards from the office of the Member of Parliament.

Speaking during the Eastern Region edition of the outreach, the Director-General of SEC, Dr. James Klutse Avedzi, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to empowering Ghanaians with the knowledge needed to make sound investment decisions.

He noted that the capital market plays a crucial role in driving personal growth, business expansion, and national development, adding that SEC’s engagement with students, entrepreneurs, and the public is part of its mission to demystify investment and rebuild trust in Ghana’s financial markets.

“Your presence here this morning is a clear demonstration of your commitment to understanding how the capital market can serve as a catalyst for your personal growth, business expansion, and national economic development,” Dr. Avedzi told participants.

Empowering Ghanaians Through Financial Education

Dr. Avedzi explained that the “Time with SEC” programme remains one of the Commission’s most impactful initiatives, bringing financial education directly to communities and helping Ghanaians understand the importance of regulated investments.

“We believe that a financially literate citizenry forms the foundation of a resilient economy. A well-informed investor is a well-protected investor,” he said.

The event, held in partnership with the Eastern Regional Coordinating Council, Bank of Ghana, National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA), National Insurance Commission (NIC), and the Ghana Stock Exchange, also encouraged collaboration among financial sector institutions to strengthen market integrity and inclusion.

Capital Market for All

Dr. Avedzi emphasized that Ghana’s capital market is not limited to large corporations, but also serves individuals, small businesses, and entrepreneurs seeking opportunities to raise funds, invest, and build sustainable wealth.

He highlighted the role of regulated products — including equities, bonds, and collective investment schemes — in helping businesses expand, governments fund infrastructure, and individuals secure long-term financial stability.

Restoring Investor Confidence

Addressing past challenges in the investment sector, Dr. Avedzi acknowledged the financial distress caused by the collapse of unlicensed and poorly managed investment schemes. He stressed that the SEC has strengthened its regulatory oversight to prevent a repeat of such incidents.

“Investor protection remains at the heart of our mandate. We continue to enhance surveillance, enforcement, and collaboration with law enforcement agencies such as the Police, EOCO, the Judiciary, and the Attorney General’s Department to ensure accountability in the financial sector,” he said.

Building a Financially Empowered Nation

The “Time with SEC” initiative continues to serve as a vital bridge between regulators and the investing public, equipping citizens with the tools to make informed financial choices.

By deepening investor education and restoring public confidence, the SEC aims to build a transparent, inclusive, and resilient financial ecosystem that supports Ghana’s sustainable economic growth.

Source: AlmightyNews