District Director of Education Calls for Stronger Sanitation Systems to Safeguard Learning in Ekumfi

Ms. Kafui Mary Ahlijah, Director of Education - Ekumfi District 

The District Director of Education for Ekumfi, Ms Kafui Mary Ahlijah, has called for urgent community action to improve sanitation infrastructure in schools and households, stressing that poor hygiene directly affects children’s health, school attendance and academic performance. She made this appeal at the 2025 World Toilet Day celebration held on Wednesday, 19th November 2025, at Ekumfi Engow, on the theme “Sanitation in a Changing World.”

Addressing pupils, teachers, parents and traditional leaders, Ms Ahlijah noted that many rural schools continue to struggle with inadequate toilet facilities, lack of privacy for girls, and unhygienic surroundings that expose pupils to diseases such as cholera, dysentery and typhoid. “We cannot expect our children to learn well when the school environment itself threatens their health,” she cautioned.

She emphasised that proper sanitation is not merely a development goal but a fundamental requirement for quality education. According to her, open defecation and improper waste disposal remain widespread in some communities within the district, posing serious health risks and undermining gains made in Basic Education.

Ms. Kafui Mary Ahlijah appealed to chiefs, opinion leaders and households to take full responsibility for the construction, use and maintenance of toilet facilities, warning that unsanitary conditions contribute heavily to absenteeism among pupils.

She was particularly concerned about the gender-sensitive sanitation gap, highlighting that girls are often the most affected. “No girl should have to miss school because she cannot manage her period safely and privately,” she said.

She therefore encouraged schools and parents to teach children proper toilet hygiene and menstrual health habits, reinforcing that education begins from home.

Her remarks aligned strongly with the call by stakeholders for improved sanitation as a driver of rural development. Nana Esi Ninsin VIII had earlier appealed for support to renovate the Amorkhor Art Haus and establish modern sanitation and changing facilities for girls. Mrs Emma Asare, founder of RADCO, also underscored the significant role sanitation plays in the dignity and retention of the Girl-Child in school.

The event was supported by the Sankofa Care Initiative, which educated pupils on personal and menstrual hygiene and distributed Smart Sanitary Kits. Global Brigades also contributed sanitary pads to assist girls from participating schools, which included Engow Methodist Basic School, Eyisam Islamic Basic School and Begrat Preparatory School.

Ms Ahlijah concluded her address by urging all stakeholders; government, traditional authorities, parents and community groups, to commit to the long-term maintenance of sanitation facilities. “Sanitation must become a shared responsibility if we want our children to grow in health, confidence and dignity,” she said.

By: Yusuf Ibrahim Dadzie

Twa-Etuakrom Headteacher Appeals for ICT Support to Digitally Empower Learners

Mr. Emmanuel Korankye Ayensu 

Mr Emmanuel Korankye Ayensu, Headteacher of Twa-Etuakrom D/A Basic School, has made a passionate appeal to the government and key stakeholders in education to support the school’s mission of nurturing and developing young minds.

He made the call on Friday, 30th May 2025, during the school’s 64th Anniversary and maiden Speech and Prize-Giving Day celebration, held under the theme: “Empowering Learners for a Digital Ghana.”

Mr Ayensu underscored the importance of digitalisation in Ghana’s educational system, noting that a country’s development is inextricably linked to the growth of its human capital.

“Digitalisation is now a global trend, and it is crucial that we integrate it effectively into our education system. A teacher cannot successfully instruct pupils in computing when the necessary tools for teaching and learning are unavailable,” he emphasised.

He, however, did not shy away from addressing the many challenges confronting the school despite its remarkable track record of producing responsible and capable citizens. These include limited resources, lack of ICT equipment, poor supervision of learners at home, indiscipline among some pupils, and the inability of some parents to provide basic educational needs for their children. He also lamented the absence of proper toilet and urinal facilities, which compromises hygiene within the school environment.

Director Kafui Mary Ahlijah 

In her remarks, Ms Kafui Mary Ahlijah, the Director of Education for the Ekumfi District, criticised the low turnout of parents at the event and urged them to show greater interest in their children’s education. She also encouraged stakeholders to support digital development in schools, stressing that while computers are crucial, other ICT tools and supporting structures are equally important to sustain digital education.

Ing. Stephen Essel Arthur 

Taking his turn, the guest speaker, Ing. Stephen Essel Arthur, donated four desktop computers to the school and pledged further support. He urged the school authorities and community to safeguard the equipment and echoed the call for more support from other stakeholders for the advancement of education, particularly at Twa-Etuakrom D/A Basic School.

Mr Ayensu further highlighted the school’s longstanding contribution to national development, citing that its alumni are currently excelling in fields such as banking, education, healthcare, engineering, artisanal trades, entrepreneurship, and other key sectors of the economy.

By: Yusuf Ibrahim Dadzie

Ekumfi Youth Association Calls on Government, Education Stakeholders to Provide Essential Resources for Schools

Sofo Paa Kow (left) and Hon. Abraham Armah (right)

The Ekumfi Youth Association (EKUYA) in the Central Region of Ghana has appealed to the government, NGOs, and other stakeholders in education to prioritise the educational needs of schools in the Ekumfi District. The association believes that providing schools with resources such as computers and information technology tools will help equip students with essential digital skills required in today’s rapidly evolving world.

This call was made by the Vice President of EKUYA, Sofo Paa Kow, during the 64th Anniversary and 1st Speech and Prize-Giving Day of Twa-Etuakrom D/A Basic School on Friday May 30, 2025.

Speaking on the theme, "Empowering Learners for a Digital Ghana," Sofo Paa Kow described the occasion as an opportune platform to highlight the urgent need for investment in digital education.

The Headteacher of the school, Mr Emmanuel Korankye Ayensu, also stressed the importance of digitalisation in Ghana’s educational system. He noted that a nation’s growth is inextricably linked to the development of its human capital.

“Digitalisation is now the global trend, and it is crucial to integrate it effectively into our education system. A teacher cannot successfully instruct pupils in computing when the necessary tools for teaching and learning are unavailable,” he stated.

Mr Ayensu further highlighted the school's long-standing contribution to national development, noting that its alumni are thriving in various sectors such as banking, education, healthcare, engineering, artisanal trades, entrepreneurship, and other key areas of the economy.

As part of its commitment to educational development, the Ekumfi Youth Association is undertaking a project to donate learning materials to selected schools within the district.

By: Yusuf Ibrahim Dadzie

Ekumfi Teachers Call for Improved Conditions of Service

Teachers within the Ekumfi District have urged their newly appointed director to advocate for improved conditions of service for members.

The appeal was made during a familiarisation visit by the director on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at Ekumfi Essarkyir, where she shared her vision and encouraged professionalism among teachers, as well as the promotion of a healthy working environment.

George Eshun

Speaking on behalf of the teachers, Mr. George Eshun highlighted the critical issue of teachers’ conditions of service. He called on Ms. Kafui Mary Ahlijah, the new Director of Education, to prioritise and champion efforts towards enhancing these conditions.

According to Mr. Eshun, teachers would be able to perform their duties with greater diligence and effectiveness if their conditions of service, particularly remuneration, were improved.

Director Kafui Mary Ahlijah

Ms. Kafui Mary Ahlijah becomes the eighth Director of Education for the Ekumfi Education Directorate since its creation in 2013, following the retirement of Mr. Isaac Oscar Odoom in December, 2024.

Bringing a vast of experience to her new role, Director Kafui aims to enhance the sustainability of schools through effective leardership.

Addressing the teachers, Director Ahlijah stressed the importance of punctuality and regular attendance at work, encouraging teachers and pupils to exhibit this behaviour. She assured them that she would actively monitor these aspects.

She further urged headteachers to adopt a proactive and positive approach to school administration, while also encouraging teachers to conduct lessons effectively and organize regular Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) within schools.

Director Kafui concluded by emphasizing the significance of team work, encouraging teachers to connect with their headteachers to foster a conducive school environment.

Teachers expressed their appreciation for her visit and are optimistic about working together to achieve a shared vision.

By: Yusuf Ibrahim Dadzie

Celestine Donkor Thrills Students with Electrifying Performance

Celestine Donkor performing on stage

Ghanaian Gospel Musician and Songwriter, Celestine Donkor wowed students in the Ekumfi District with a sterling stage craft. The multiple award-winning artiste headlined a programme organized by Voice of Victory (VOV) Family Entertainment in collaboration with Nana Araba Ahinfuwa III, Queen of Ekumfi Abor, on Wednesday at Ekumfi Abor in the Central Region.

Dubbed “A Day with the Adolescents,” the event brought together about 2,000 pre-tertiary students to address the menace of teenage pregnancy in Ekumfi while celebrating the 2024 Christmas season with a carols service. The theme for the programme was “Preparing the Adolescents for Our Tomorrow.”

Speakers, including representatives from the Ekumfi Education Directorate, Ekumfi Health Service, Nananom and the Presiding Member of the Ekumfi District Assembly, urged students to prioritize their education. They referenced a dramatic sketch by students of Attakwaa T. I. Ahmadiyya Basic School, which highlighted the causes and effects of teenage pregnancy. The Health Service commended the significant decline in teenage pregnancy cases in 2024 and encouraged further efforts to reduce them to its barest minimum. Additionally, they proposed making the event an annual feature in the district.

Nana Araba Ahinfuwa III, reiterated the importance of education, urging students to focus on their studies. She also called on parents to be proactive and dutiful in providing their children with the necessary learning resources, support and supervision to excel academically.

In a charged atmosphere, Celestine, the Agbebolo hitmaker, delivered a thrilling back-to-back performance, leaving audience in awe.

By: Yusuf Ibrahim Dadzie

Former Presiding Member Calls for Contract Extension of Ekumfi District's Education Director

Hon. Amoasi-Andoh

In a remarkable display of appreciation and dedication to quality education in the Ekumfi District, former Presiding Member, Mr. Kwamina Amoasi-Andoh, has urged support from community leaders, dignitaries, and education stakeholders to vote in favour of a five-year contract extension for Mr. Isaac Oscar Odoom, the District Director of Education for Ekumfi. Mr. Odoom's unwavering commitment and selfless contributions to the Directorate have earned him this plea for continued service.

This plea was delivered during the 2nd Awards' Day Ceremony of the District, held on Thursday, October 5, 2023, under the theme "Honouring Our Heroes for Quality Education in Ekumfi District." The event was designed to celebrate excellence and recognize teachers, especially those serving in hard-to-reach communities, with the aim of inspiring, attracting, and retaining talented educators.

Honourable Amoasi-Andoh, himself an honouree at the event, conveyed the sentiments of the community by appealing to Traditional Leaders, Clergy, Dignitaries, and education stakeholders to jointly petition the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service, among other important institutions, to extend Mr. Isaac Oscar Odoom's tenure. Such an extension would allow him to continue his exceptional legacy of service to the district.

During his address, Mr. Kwamina Amoasi-Andoh expressed gratitude to all awardees and emphasized the importance of valuing and cherishing teachers as invaluable assets to the community. A total of 63 awards were presented to deserving individuals during the ceremony.

The granting of this petition would enable Director Odoom and his capable team to maintain their exemplary work, in line with their vision for the 3rd edition of the awards ceremony, scheduled for May 2024. Mr. Odoom's dedication to education in the Ekumfi District serves as a beacon of hope and progress for the community.

Central Regional Education Officer Urges for Transformative Education on World Teachers' Day

Mr. B. K. Asare

Mr. Benjamin Kwasi Asare, the Central Regional Planning and Monitoring Officer for the Ghana Education Service, delivered a compelling message during the 2nd Ekumfi Education District Awards' Day Ceremony held on Thursday, October 5, 2023. The event coincided with World Teachers' Day, a global celebration of outstanding educators.

In his address on behalf of the Central Regional Director of Education, Mr. Emmanuel Essuman, Mr. Asare commended teachers and award recipients and called upon them, along with education stakeholders, to become catalysts for positive change in the world. He emphasized that the best teachers are those who inspire students to seek answers themselves, highlighting the pivotal role of educators in shaping future generations.

Mr. Armah, an awardee from Dunkwa Abontsen D/A Basic School

Acknowledging the challenges faced by teachers and schools, Mr. Asare drew attention to issues such as the deplorable condition of school buildings, citing the Dunkwa Abontsen D/A Basic School within the Ekumfi District as an example. He expressed his admiration for an award recipient from this school. Throughout his address, he emphasized the transformative potential of education, stating, "one book, one pen, one child can change the world."  

Dignitaries in a group photo with awardees

The event's centerpiece was the recognition of 63 dedicated teachers from various levels of education, ranging from Kindergarten to Senior High School, as well as Headteachers and Retirees. The celebration also honoured individuals and groups who have made significant contributions to improving education within the district. Distinguished guests included Mr. Isaac Oscar Odoom (host), Traditional Leaders, Clergy, Hon. Ebenezer Kwesi Monney (DCE for Ekumfi), and his Coordinating Director, Miss. Sabina Otoo (District Director, Ajumako-Enyan-Essiam) and other District Directors of Education. 

Mr. Asare's passionate call for transformative education resonated strongly on World Teachers' Day, underscoring the crucial role that educators play in shaping the future and inspiring positive change in society.

Mr. Louis Abban, Ekumfi TV, Others to be Awarded on World Teachers’ Day.

Mr. Louis Abban

Ekumfi District Education Director Announces Awardees for Teachers' Awards Day Ceremony. In anticipation of World Teachers' Day on October 5, 2023, the District Education Director of Ekumfi in the Central Region of Ghana, Mr. Isaac Oscar Odoom, has unveiled the names of distinguished individuals set to receive awards at the Teachers' Awards Day Ceremony. This prestigious event will take place at the Ekumfi Essarkyir Community Centre and will recognize the exceptional dedication and contributions of educators and community leaders to the Ekumfi District.

Mr. Hammond, CEO - Ekumfi TV

Among the notable honourees is Mr. Louis Abban, Headteacher of Egyankwaa/Owuya D/A Basic School, who has served diligently in the teaching profession for an impressive thirty-seven (37) years in Ekumfi District. Mr. Abban is due for retirement in January 2024. 

Another luminary on the list is Mr. Daniel Hammond, the CEO of Ekumfi TV, who has passionately captured the vibrant spirit of the Ekumfi District for the past three years without compensation. Through his efforts, the world has gained insight into the educational endeavours and cultural richness of the Ekumfi District.

Mr. Isaac Oscar Odoom

Mr. Isaac Oscar Odoom was in a live radio interview with Papa Willie, a morning show host on Coastal FM (94.9Mhz) in Mankessim together with Mr. Bentsiefi Kofi Biney (Officer incharge of Finance and Administration, Ekumfi District) and the Chairman of the Awards’ Committee and Mr. Samuel Baffoe Aikins (PRO, Ekumfi District). Mr. Isaac Oscar Odoom, the District Education Director, shared his motivation for organizing the Teachers' Awards Day Ceremony, citing the principle of labour efficiency. "One of the factors is to motivate labour," he emphasized. He also expressed his deep appreciation for educators like Mr. Louis Abban, who have dedicated their lives to the noble profession without receiving the recognition they deserve. “I almost cried when I realized Mr. Louis has spent these number of years and yet no recognition or appreciation,” he said in Fante.

This event aims to acknowledge teachers who have willingly accepted postings to Hard-to-Reach Communities, as well as those who have made significant contributions to various education levels, including KG, Lower Primary, Upper Primary, JHS, Headteachers, and Retirees. Both individuals and groups that have made outstanding contributions to education in Ekumfi District will also be celebrated, with a total of 63 awards to be presented.

Mr. Samuel Baffoe Aikins, the PRO of Ekumfi District, acknowledged the challenges in organizing such events due to a lack of monetary support. Mr. Odoom also raised concerns about the issue of teacher accommodation, which poses a significant challenge to teacher retention in the district. “It is very disheartening that, elsewhere in other districts, it is facilitated by the Assembly and Member of Parliament (MP) but in Ekumfi, it is different,” he added.

Despite these challenges, the event has garnered support from various individuals and groups, including Nana Otu Essuon, Mr. Stephen Quansah, Frimps Oil, Mrs. Bernice Asare of Standard Assessment Solutions (SAS), and the Executives of the Conference of Heads of Basic Schools (COHBS) in Ekumfi.

Each awardee will receive a citation and bedecked with a medal in recognition of their outstanding contributions to education and community development. Mr. Bentsiefi Kofi Biney, Chairman for the Awards’ Committee, praised Mr. Odoom for his visionary leadership in conceiving and organizing this noteworthy event.

The Teachers' Awards Day Ceremony, featuring Mr. Louis Abban, Mr. Daniel Hammond, and other outstanding individuals, promises to be a highlight of the celebration of World Teachers' Day in Ekumfi District.

Attakwaa T. I. Ahmadiyya Basic School's Inaugural Kindergarten Graduation and Appreciation Day: "Reciprocity in Action"

Attakwaa T. I. Ahmadiyya Basic School held a momentous event on September 12, 2023, in Ekumfi Attakwaa, marking its inaugural Kindergarten Graduation and Appreciation Day, themed "One Good Turn Deserves Another." This remarkable occasion featured a splendid ceremony where graduating kindergarten pupils were adorned with prestigious gold-plated medals, and various commendations were bestowed upon longstanding teachers, former headteachers, Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) and School Management Committee (SMC) executives, the top performer in the 2020 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), and the exceptional kindergarten teachers. The event was masterfully orchestrated by Mr. George Eshun, the Master of Ceremony, and brought together pupils, parents, educators, and esteemed guests to celebrate achievements and commitment.

The festivities commenced with an atmosphere of excitement and pride, as ten (10) young KG graduands, donned in caps and gowns, embarked on a journey filled with promise for a bright future. Auntie Aba Amponsah Baah, the event's Chairperson, extended a warm welcome to all attendees and stressed the pivotal role of early childhood education in shaping young minds. She lauded the school's dedication to providing a nurturing and enriching environment and urged parents to be attentive to their children's needs and actively participate in school events.

Mr. Samuel Baffoe Aikins, the Guest Speaker and Public Relations Officer (PRO) for Ekumfi District Education Directorate, had his speech delivered on his behalf by Mr. Ishmael Aidoo, the SMC Financial Secretary. Mr. Aidoo delivered an inspiring address, highlighting the importance of early education in establishing a strong academic foundation. He encouraged parents to continue supporting their children's education and commended Attakwaa T. I. Ahmadiyya Basic School for its unwavering commitment to delivering quality education.

The skillful guidance of Mr. George Eshun as the Master of Ceremony added a touch of professionalism and excitement to the proceedings. Through his adept commentary, he ensured the seamless flow of the programme, keeping the audience engaged and informed throughout the day, contributing significantly to the event's memorable success.

The celebration extended to the dedicated KG teachers, with special recognition given to Miss Lily Aboagye, Head of the KG Department, acknowledging their steadfast commitment to nurturing young minds and playing a vital role in the educational journey of the young graduates.

As part of the festivities, each graduand received a gold-plated medal, symbolizing their achievements and the school's dedication to educational excellence. These gleaming medals served as a testament to the diligence of both the young learners and their teachers.

In a touching gesture, the school presented citations to honour the contributions of long-serving teachers, former headteachers, the 2020 top BECE candidate, and the diligent PTA and SMC executives who have played pivotal roles in the school's progress.

Mr. Yusuf Ibrahim Dadzie, the current Headteacher, delivered a call to action, appealing to all stakeholders, especially philanthropists, to offer their support to the school. He emphasized the need to fence the KG playground for the safety of the young learners and requested assistance in providing essential learning resources to enhance the educational experience.

The kindergarten graduates showcased their talents through various engaging activities, including the "fill in the bottle" game, poetry performances, and a delightful choreography, leaving the audience captivated. Their creativity and confidence left a lasting impression on all in attendance. 

Attakwaa T. I. Ahmadiyya Basic School's Maiden Kindergarten Graduation and Appreciation Day, themed "One Good Turn Deserves Another," not only celebrated the accomplishments of its young graduates but also emphasized the school's commitment to excellence and the significance of early education. The day was filled with golden moments, symbolizing the potential and promise of these young minds as they continue their educational journey.

Mr. Dadzie, the Headteacher, expressed his optimism for the future and the bright prospects awaiting the young graduates. He reiterated the school's unwavering dedication to nurturing well-rounded individuals prepared for a lifelong journey of learning.

Attakwaa T. I. Ahmadiyya Basic School's KG Graduation and Appreciation Day, themed "One Good Turn Deserves Another," stood as a golden celebration, recognizing the achievements of young learners and the contributions of dedicated educators and stakeholders. It marked a significant milestone in the school's history and called for continued support to enhance the educational experience for future generations. This event provided a wonderful conclusion to the academic year, inspiring learners and their families for the journey ahead.

©SHYNMEDIAGH 2023