The Assembly Member for the Soe-Yipaala Electoral Area, Dr. Justice Aduko, has highlighted that the Soe area continues to operate without a fully established health facility officially recognized by the Ghana Health Service.
Speaking on A1 Radio, Dr. Aduko shed light on the pressing challenges facing the community, particularly in healthcare and education. He outlined the ongoing struggles and the proactive measures he has undertaken to address them.
Although efforts to establish a health center began under previous leadership, Dr. Aduko has played a key role in advancing the initiative and transforming the concept into a functioning facility.
“In terms of healthcare, we are also challenged. The entire Soe does not have a health center in its name. In fact, I came and initiated one. Though the idea started with my predecessors, I took it up and made it a reality.”
Despite this progress, the center has yet to be integrated into the official pool of health institutions in the municipality. However, he acknowledged the strong support from the Municipal Health Director, who has been instrumental in providing personnel to keep the facility running as plans for full absorption continue.
On education, the Assembly Member described the situation as dire. While some school infrastructure exists, it remains inadequate to meet the needs of the growing student population. He added that beyond physical infrastructure, several other challenges continue to hinder educational outcomes in the area.
“Education is also very, very terrible. Yes, of course, we have some school infrastructure, but it’s not enough for the pupils, which poses serious educational challenges. Beyond the infrastructure, there are other issues confronting the educational sector.”
To improve student performance, he has launched several personal initiatives, including the “One B.E.C.E. Candidate, One Math Set” program, which provides students with mathematical sets and stationery to prepare for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). This initiative spans both Soe and Yipaala and is designed to motivate candidates while easing the financial burden on parents.
Additionally, high-performing BECE candidates who score aggregates between 6 and 15 are recognized during an annual award ceremony.
“When they write the BECE, those who get aggregates between 6 to 15 are brought together and awarded.”
The initiative also includes motivational sessions for students ahead of their exams, and support for teachers to organize extra classes in the lead-up to the BECE.
“We have also been supporting the teachers anytime BECE is approaching, to organize special extra classes for candidates.”
Recognizing the challenge of student hunger during exams, he is also exploring ways to provide breakfast for candidates before they sit for their papers. To strengthen these support systems further, the Assembly Member revealed he is in talks with Nestlé Ghana for potential collaboration and sponsorship. He also organizes an annual end-of-year gathering to reward and encourage teachers for their dedication.
For senior high school graduates facing challenges in accessing tertiary education, Dr. Aduko offers guidance and support to help them navigate university admissions. He called on individuals, organizations, and corporate bodies to support his initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life in Soe-Yipaala, especially in the areas of health and education.
“I’m still appealing to people out there to come and support these initiatives,” he said.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga
