Pupils at the Obawale Methodist Basic school risk their lives studying in a dilapidated structure as they await the handing over of a newly constructed three-unit classroom block which was initiated by the former Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Yilo Krobo, Ebenezer Tetteh Kupualor.
The classroom block has since been completed and locked awaiting the usual ceremonious grand opening and handing over, while students sit in the dilapidated structure which is almost ripping apart.
Teachers, including the head teacher have no option left than to sit under trees to execute their duties including marking exercises, examinations and other assignments as expected by the Ghana Education Service (GES).
In a conversation with trustfmonline.com, the PTA Chairman, Mr. John Mautsuoeni noted that the school was established in 1965 by the Wesleyan Methodist Church which was run until the Municipal Assembly came to build a three-unit pavilion until the then MCE left office.
“The new block was completed around November last year and I met the MCE, told him that we needed to start using the place and he promised to come and hand over to us but, until date, we have not heard anything yet.” He said.
He appealed to the MCE and other related authorities to come to the aid of the pupils as they do not know when a strong wind may blow off the roofing sheets that are almost fallen and only supported by heavy stones which makes it more dangerous for school children to sit under to study.
In a bid to get reasons why the facility in question has been locked to put children at risk, Trust FM posted a video of the dilapidated building on some social media platforms to ensure the general public is aware of the happenings in some of our rural communities.
The current MCE, Mr. Eric Tetteh who spotted the post on Facebook, commented saying, “Not fun fair. Our engineers detected some problems with the doors and the contractor promised rectifying it by 1st week of February. If you don’t know ask.”
Meanwhile, in a contradicting statement, the Social Services subcommittee chairman Honorable Isaac Tetteh Amanor promised in an interview that the facility will be opened within the first week of February as against the MCE’s statement.
Trust FM is following up to ensuring the facility is opened for use to prevent any unforeseen circumstances especially as there’s just about three months to enter the rainy season amidst strong winds.
