Basic Schools Cannot Reopen On 3rd October – Clement Apaak Explains Why

The member of Parliament for Builsa South Constituency in the Upper East region of Ghana, Dr. Clement Apaak, who doubles as the Deputy Ranking Member on Parliament’s Education Committee has clearly revealed that basic schools in Ghana cannot resume the 2023/2024 academic year on 3rd October, 2023.

According to him, government has not adequately provided the schools with the necessary logistics and resources for effective teaching and learning. He added that the capitation grants are in arrears for seven terms.

The law maker again stated that most schools do not have textbooks and those who have do not have the full complement.

Dr Clement Apaak also expressed disappointment at the furniture shortage and has requested the government to address these issues before the schools are reopened.

“How can we have effective teaching and learning in our public basic schools when:
a) Capitation grants are in arrears of 7 terms; b) Most schools have no textbooks. Those with some don’t have the full complement; c) Acute furniture shortage. When will these issues be addressed.”

On Wednesday, 13th October, 2023, the Ghana Education Service indicates that the 2023/2024 academic year for basic schools in Ghana will begin on Tuesday, 3rd October, 2023.

In a letter signed by the deputy director general of the Ghana Education Service, Dr. Kwabena Bempah Tandoh and forwarded to all district offices in the country, the Ghana Education Service explained why basic Schools will reopen on Tuesday, 3rd October. According to GES, it want to restore the old academic calendar.

The old academic calendar used to start from September each year. However, due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, it changed from September to January. GES has finally restored the academic calendar for basic schools.

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There has been mixed reactions following this date of school commencement. While some feel excited, others believe that teachers and the pupils will not get enough rest for the next academic year.