Over 100 kindergarten pupils in the Zukpire community, Lawra constituency, Upper West region, now have access to a conducive learning environment following the commissioning of a new, modern kindergarten block by Member of Parliament Lawyer Bede A. Ziedeng. The facility, funded by the MP’s share of the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) at a cost of GHS 219,885, aims to eliminate the severe educational infrastructure deficit that previously forced children to travel long distances or study in inadequate conditions.
Addressing Educational Gaps
The newly commissioned KG block directly tackles the issue of limited educational access in Zukpire. Previously, young children in the community faced significant hurdles in obtaining early childhood education.
Many had to journey to neighboring communities like Kansare, a significant undertaking for very young children. Others may have been forced to learn in makeshift or unsuitable environments, hindering their educational development from the outset.
This project represents a tangible solution to these challenges, providing a dedicated, purpose-built facility designed to foster learning and development.
MP’s Commitment to Education
Lawyer Bede A. Ziedeng emphasized that the project underscores his unwavering commitment to building a strong educational foundation for the youth in his constituency.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, he stated, “Education remains one of the most powerful tools for transforming societies and uplifting communities from poverty and deprivation.” He reiterated the belief that “every child, regardless of his or her background, deserves access to a safe, conducive, and dignified learning environment.”
This KG block is part of a broader educational investment strategy by the MP. He highlighted that over 118 tertiary students have received more than GHS 215,000 in support this term alone.
Since 2021, his total educational expenditure in the constituency has surpassed GHS 600,000. This demonstrates a sustained effort to improve educational opportunities at various levels.
Broader Vision for Lawra’s Education
The MP articulated a clear vision for the future of education in the Lawra constituency. He aims to create a system where quality infrastructure, adequate learning materials, and motivated teachers are accessible to all children.
“I envision a constituency where our schools become centres of excellence, where no pupil studies under trees,” he declared, emphasizing the goal of equal opportunities for success irrespective of social background or location.
Looking ahead, Ziedeng announced that the next community slated for similar infrastructure development is Tampier. He plans to break ground for a new KG school block there within the next few weeks, following community site selection and procurement processes.
Community and Stakeholder Support
The commissioning ceremony saw commendation from local leaders and education officials. Lawra Municipal Chief Executive, Cecilia Soyele Nuratu, lauded the collaborative effort, calling the facility a “symbol of hope, progress, and our collective commitment to the future of Zukpire.”
She expressed gratitude to MP Bede Ziedeng for his continuous advocacy and resource allocation for educational infrastructure across the municipality, highlighting the positive outcomes of harmonious work between the assembly and the MP’s office.
The Chief of Zukpire, Naa Baabornubor Tang Zaataanomor III, described the school as a “realised dream” and urged the community to embrace ownership of the facility. He stressed the importance of parents actively ensuring their children attend school.
Francis Cudjoe, Director of Education for Lawra, recognized the state-of-the-art facility as more than just a building. He assured that over 100 pupils who were previously out of school will now benefit from adequate space, ventilation, a playing yard, and proper teaching facilities. Fully qualified teachers are reportedly ready to commence lessons.
Addressing Other Community Needs
While celebrating the educational milestone, the Assembly Member for Zukpire, Pelletege Langteng Frederick, also highlighted other pressing needs. He appealed for support in the health sector, specifically requesting weighing centers for women and nurses, and an emergency transport system for the CHPS compound.
Further requests included the replacement of broken water tanks and the installation of a solar water system to support dry-season farming and domestic water supply.
The event concluded with an appeal for a strong maintenance culture within the Zukpire community to ensure the longevity of the new school block.
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