Development advocate Solomon TTB Zenakena has acknowledged the contributions of past and present leaders to the progress of Talensi in the Upper East Region, while urging authorities to prioritize road infrastructure and youth employment as critical areas for improvement.
“As it stands now, we need to appreciate past leaders for what they have been able to do. We may not be where we intend to be now, but former presidents, former MPs, the current MP, and former DCEs have all done well. They have all contributed very well,” he said in an interview on A1 Radio.
Mr. Zenakena noted that during the tenure of the late John Tiah, education infrastructure was a major challenge. However, steady interventions over the years have ensured that nearly every community in Talensi now has a basic school. He also praised the establishment of the Tongo Senior High Technical School, highlighting the collaborative effort of chiefs, the district assembly, and political leaders.
“I can tell you that certain leaders have played key roles in the development of education. The current Tongo Senior High Technical School was initiated by a community chief, with support from the MP at the time, the district assembly, and others. I will give credit to the Baare Chief for that singular contribution,” he said.
Mr. Zenakena further observed that education in the area has improved significantly, with more young people completing higher levels of study, including university and even doctoral degrees. However, he expressed concern that despite these educational gains, many graduates and skilled individuals continue to struggle with unemployment.
“Unemployment remains a critical challenge. We have the human resource, we have the skills, but many of our young people are not finding jobs. This is a worrying trend that must be addressed to secure the future of Talensi,” he emphasized.
He also acknowledged improvements in healthcare, citing the establishment of several CHPS compounds and health facilities across the district. Nonetheless, he identified poor road infrastructure as the most pressing challenge currently facing Talensi.
“The major challenge, as we speak now, in Talensi, in terms of development, is our roads. The roads are very deplorable. This hinders business opportunities, restricts access to communities, and slows down growth. When they are able to address the roads, it would be a plus to us,” he stressed.
Mr. Zenakena believes that by fixing roads and tackling unemployment, Talensi can build on the progress already made in education, healthcare, and other sectors to accelerate development for the benefit of all residents.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1 MHz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga
