Residents of Damanko in the Nkwanta North District of the Oti Region are urgently appealing to the government to commission and operationalize the long-completed E-Block Community Day Senior High School. The community seeks to improve access to secondary education and spur local development through the facility’s immediate opening.
Background of the E-Block Project
The E-Block Community Day Senior High School project was initiated in 2013 during the first term of President John Dramani Mahama’s administration. This initiative was part of a broader national effort to expand educational infrastructure and increase secondary school enrollment across Ghana.
Construction progressed significantly, and the facility was substantially completed during the subsequent administration of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. However, despite its completion, the school was never formally commissioned or opened for academic activities before the government’s term ended.
Community’s Appeal for Action
Community members and local leaders are now calling on current government officials to expedite the commissioning process. Specifically, they have addressed their appeal to President Mahama, the Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, the Nkwanta North District Chief Executive (DCE), Isaiah Kudjoe Dordoe, and the Member of Parliament (MP) for the Nkwanta North constituency, John Kwabena Bless Oti.
Speaking on behalf of the residents, Assembly Member for Damanko East, Kwabena Vincent, highlighted the critical importance of the school. He emphasized that its operationalization would provide much-needed accessible and quality secondary education within the district.
This would alleviate the financial burden on parents who currently send their children to schools in other regions. Such a move is expected to reduce travel costs and the logistical challenges associated with distance education.
Economic and Social Benefits Anticipated
Beyond educational access, the community anticipates significant socio-economic benefits from the school’s opening. Mr. Vincent stated that the operationalization of the facility is expected to create local employment opportunities. This includes jobs for teaching and non-teaching staff, as well as roles in maintenance and support services.
Furthermore, the influx of students and staff is projected to stimulate economic activity in Damanko. Local businesses, such as retail shops, food vendors, and transportation services, are expected to experience increased demand, thereby improving livelihoods in the area.
Residents’ Hopes and Expectations
Some residents have expressed optimism, believing that the current National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration will prioritize and fulfill their long-standing expectations. They view the E-Block school as a vital investment in the future of the district’s youth and its overall development.
The community leaders and residents are urging the government to take immediate and decisive steps to commission and open the facility. They firmly believe that bringing the school into operation will not only enhance educational opportunities but also contribute substantially to the socio-economic advancement of Damanko and the broader Nkwanta North District.
Future Outlook
The focus now shifts to the government’s response and the timeline for commissioning the E-Block school. Stakeholders will be watching closely to see if the appeals translate into prompt action, which could significantly impact educational access and economic growth in the Oti Region. The successful operationalization of this facility could serve as a model for addressing similar infrastructure needs in other underserved areas of the country.
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