By Peter Agengre
A heavy rainstorm that swept through parts of the Bongo District in the Upper East Region last week has left a trail of destruction in several basic schools, raising concerns about the continuity of academic activities in affected communities.
The hardest-hit areas include Apaatanga, Bogrigo, and Akuliyoo, where strong winds ripped off roofs from classroom blocks, exposing school infrastructure to further damage. In many cases, teaching and learning materials have been destroyed, leaving classrooms unusable.
During a tour of the affected schools, the Member of Parliament for Bongo, Charles Bawaduah, described the situation as alarming and called for urgent intervention.
“‘What I have seen is deeply troubling. Our children cannot study under these conditions. We must act quickly to restore these facilities and ensure learning continues without interruption,’” he said.
At Akuliyoo Basic School, the head teacher, Nmaale Bismark, warned that the damage could severely disrupt the academic calendar.
“‘If nothing is done immediately, teaching and learning will come to a halt. The pupils are currently stranded because when school reopens next week, they will have no place to sit. The rainy season will also set in soon.’”
Parents and community members have also expressed concern, appealing to the government, non-governmental organizations, and other stakeholders for urgent support. They are calling for immediate repairs, temporary learning spaces, and relief materials to help restore normalcy.
The incident highlights the vulnerability of school infrastructure in rural communities, especially during extreme weather conditions.
