The Binduri District in Ghana’s Upper East Region has witnessed a remarkable shift in attitudes toward public education, as parents and students embrace the district’s newly upgraded school facilities.
For years, many basic schools in the district were neglected, leading to declining enrollment as parents sought better conditions, often in the private sector. In the community of Belimpiisi, a parent named Amina shared her emotional experience of enrolling her child in the previously dilapidated Belimpiisi Basic School. She recounted the distress of watching her child study in a building barely standing, with crumbling walls and a leaky roof.
“It was an eyesore,” she said, expressing her concerns for her child’s safety and well-being. This experience was not unique to Belimpiisi; similar accounts emerged from other communities where poor school infrastructure discouraged families. Teachers, who preferred to remain unnamed, also voiced their frustrations, explaining how inadequate facilities drove students away and undermined the quality of education.
A teacher from one of the primary schools, who wished to remain anonymous, shared how the recent improvements are helping transform the district. “We are seeing students return to school, eager to learn in the new classrooms. The difference is night and day,” he stated, emphasizing how safe, welcoming environments have reinvigorated both students and teachers.
Infrastructure Projects
With new buildings, improved facilities, and adequate furniture, public schools in the district are once again attracting students. The Member of Parliament for the area, Abdulai Abanga, explained that since assuming office in 2020, he has overseen the construction of several classroom blocks and the renovation of existing structures to improve learning conditions across the district.
He highlighted key projects, including 3-unit classroom blocks with staff offices and urinals at Tambiogo (2021), Kpalugu (2021), and Belimpiisi (2023). Additionally, 6-unit classroom blocks with libraries and staff rooms have been established at Atuba (2020), Kuloku (2024), and Bansi Primary School (2024).
“These projects provide additional learning spaces and meet the educational needs of our growing communities,” he noted. “I also carried out special renovations in storm-damaged schools like Noriyine, Goore, and Vako primary schools to restore structural integrity and safety.”
He added, “Under my watch, we supplied Binduri schools with over 2,000 desks between 2022 and 2024, ensuring each classroom can now accommodate all students comfortably.”
Impact on Education
The transformation in school facilities has visibly impacted enrollment, with more parents choosing to enroll their children in local public schools. These schools have reported higher attendance rates and increased consistency in student performance. Teachers, too, are motivated by the improvements, as better facilities make it easier to conduct lessons and engage students.
According to data from the Binduri District Education Office, attendance at newly refurbished and constructed schools has increased by nearly 30% over the past two years. Parents, teachers, and students alike credit the improved infrastructure as a major factor behind this rise.
Supporting Academic Performance
One of the initiatives receiving widespread praise from teachers and headmasters is the district-level mock examinations for Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidates. The MP has provided logistical and financial support for these exams annually and has donated mathematical sets to all final-year junior high school students.
Teachers also appreciated additional resources, including laptops and other teaching tools, which they say have improved morale and facilitated better educational outcomes in the area. One teacher remarked, “The increased attention to academic readiness has truly improved our district.”
Additionally, the MP shared that he has facilitated scholarships and financial aid for over 325 tertiary students and secured international scholarships for two students from the district. A notable example includes a student from Bazua who received a full scholarship to study at Ashesi University. “This kind of support sends a clear message that education is a valued and attainable goal in Binduri. I am committed to supporting the youth, regardless of socio-economic barriers,” he said.
Many parents, like Amina, have witnessed the difference that improved infrastructure makes. They describe the current school environment as safe, inspiring, and equipped for success.
This renewed interest in education, sparked by upgraded infrastructure and resources, could shape a brighter future for the entire Binduri District, positioning it as a hub for educational development in the region.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Moses Apiah|Bolgatanga|
