The handover ceremony brought together dignitaries, alumni, staff, and students. Among them was Mr. Ernest Adevor, District Chief Executive (DCE) for the North Dayi District Assembly, an alumnus and former tutor of the school. He described the completion as a source of pride and reaffirmed government’s commitment to expanding quality educational infrastructure.

Key Contributors to the Project’s Success

• Hon. Joycelyn Tetteh, MP for North Dayi Constituency: Through her consistent advocacy and follow-ups, the project was revived after years of delay. Known for championing education, youth empowerment, and infrastructure, Hon. Tetteh’s efforts were widely acknowledged.

• The Contractor: Commended for their dedication and efficiency, which ensured timely delivery of the facility.

Future Prospects for Anfoega SHS

Infrastructure expansion at Anfoega SHS is ongoing. Work has resumed on an ultra-modern dining hall, expected to be completed ahead of the school’s 60th Anniversary celebration in November. The facility forms part of broader government efforts to phase out the double-track system and restore full academic normalcy.

Mr. Adevor’s dual role as both DCE and alumnus was highlighted as an example of leadership rooted in community service. The Anfoega Senior High School Old Students’ Association (ANFOSA) praised his commitment to giving back to his alma mater and to the development of the district.

The inauguration of the new block marks more than just an infrastructural upgrade; it represents a renewed dedication to the growth of Anfoega SHS and the promise of greater opportunities for its students.

During a solemn address in Parliament, Member of Parliament for Lawra Constituency, Hon. Bede A. Ziedeng, recounted the heartbreaking incident. The students—members of the school’s cadet corps—had embarked on a morning jog along the riverbank. Of the 16 students (11 girls and 5 boys), ten decided to board a locally managed canoe to cross the river. Tragically, the canoe capsized.

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In a heroic act, their cadet commander dove into the river and managed to rescue three students. Sadly, seven others perished—a loss that has shaken the school, the community, and the entire region.

“This is a painful reminder of how fragile life is and how preventable some tragedies can be,” Hon. Ziedeng told Parliament.

The MP disclosed that the deceased students hailed from various districts across the Upper West Region, including Lawra, Daffiama-Bussie-Issa, Nandom, Wa, and Nadowli-Kaleo. The three rescued students are currently recovering and receiving medical attention.

Ziedeng emphasized that the incident could have been avoided if the students had access to life jackets, which are critical for safe river transport. The canoe they boarded had none—a situation that mirrors safety gaps in many communities along the Black Volta.

“We cannot allow this to happen again. NADMO must act now,” he urged, referencing the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO).

He further called on government authorities, civil society, and the private sector to provide life-saving equipment to all riverine communities, and to invest in public safety education.

Ziedeng concluded with a passionate appeal:

“Let this not be another news cycle that fades. Let us remember these young souls with more than just words. Let their deaths awaken us to our responsibilities.”