Kwapia R/C Basic School has celebrated a significant milestone with a joint ceremony commemorating the graduation of its BECE students and bidding farewell to its former headmaster, Mr. Robert Addai Kwarteng.
Mr. Kwarteng, who also served as the Abedwum Sanaahene, expressed his gratitude during the sendoff ceremony, which was attended by members of the community and well-wishers.
During his address, Mr. Kwarteng raised concerns about the troubling trend in the Kwapia community, where a growing number of male students are dropping out of school to engage in illegal mining, known as galamsey.
He identified quick money as a factor leading young men to forsake their education, resulting in a concerning gender imbalance at the school.
With 34 years of teaching experience, including seven years as headmaster, Mr. Kwarteng has witnessed firsthand the detrimental effects of galamsey on the youth in the community.
Despite the school’s proud history of producing notable leaders, such as Hon. Andrews Amoako Asiamah, the second deputy speaker of parliament, the current trend poses a threat to the community’s future prospects.
As part of the event, students participated in a debate contest on the topic “For preferred excellence, private school is better than government school.”
Gyasi Agyapong Ellen emerged as the principal speaker against the motion, ultimately winning the debate.
Mr. Kwarteng supported the stance against the motion, stressing the success stories of individuals who received their education in government schools.
The current headmaster, Mr. Samuel Ansah, echoed the concerns raised by his predecessor regarding the high number of male students abandoning their education for illegal mining activities.
He urged parents to intervene and guide their sons back to school, underscoring the importance of education over immediate financial gains during this crucial stage of their lives.
Mr. Ansah also stated the school’s need for a modern computer lab to align with the demands of today’s technology-driven education system.
He called for support from the government and relevant stakeholders to help equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge for success in the evolving educational landscape.
