By Peter Agengre
In the troubled heart of Bawku, where conflict has disrupted lives and driven many to flee, one individual has bravely chosen to remain. Our Upper East Regional Correspondent, Peter Agengre, shares the inspiring tale of a dedicated teacher whose unwavering resolve shines as a beacon of hope amidst the uncertainty.
Located in the Upper East Region, Bawku is a town of significant cultural importance, bordering Burkina Faso and Togo. Despite its rich heritage, Bawku has been plagued by longstanding tensions, pitting neighbours against neighbours. Decades of recurring conflict have taken a devastating toll, disrupting education, community life, and the overall well-being of the people.
“Many of the workers have left Bawku town. Many of the teachers have left. The nurses too have left. The MP Mahama Ayariga has not even paid us a visit to know how we are faring. It’s a difficult situation for us now in Bawku,” a student said.
The mass exodus of public sector workers, particularly teachers, has left the municipality in a state of despair. Schools stand empty, abandoning children to an uncertain future, as the prospects of education and growth seem bleak.
“In 2021, 30 teachers left Bawku Municipality to other districts within the region. But in 2022, inter-district transfers alone were 95, and 85 teachers left Bawku to other regions in the nation,” former Regional Human Resource Officer at GES, John Anaba said.
Amidst this crisis, one individual remains resolute – a teacher who continues to hold steadfast to his conviction, choosing to stay and make a difference.
A dedicated graduate teacher with nineteen years of service in Bawku, Yussif Abdul-Rahaman, has made a courageous decision to remain at his post, undeterred by the sounds of gunfire. His unwavering commitment to his pupils is a testament to his unshakeable devotion to the community, exemplifying the essence of patriotism and selflessness.
“After completing Gbewa College, I decided to comply with the bond I signed with my district. And Bawku is my town, so if I leave, who will come and model these kids for their future. I love what I’m doing and that’s why I have stayed,” Teacher Yussif Abdul-Fatahu told GBC News.
In the absence of his colleagues, Yussif Abdul-Rahaman has shouldered an extraordinary burden, taking on multiple subjects and conducting extra classes to ensure his students’ education remains uninterrupted. He goes further by visiting homes to support his pupils’ learning. His tireless efforts have not gone unnoticed, earning praise from parents who appreciate his unwavering dedication to their children’s education.
“Mr. Yussif is one of the punctual teachers in this area. He told us that because of the future of these kids, he isn’t going anywhere, and truly, he has stayed committed,” a parent, Abdul Mumuni Sakina, narrated.
The conflict has left many scars both emotionally and physically. But inside these classroom walls, Abdul-Rahaman creates a space of hope, of learning, and of safety.
Forty-five-year-old Abdul-Rahaman is more than just a teacher — he is a symbol of resilience, and for many children, a father figure. His presence reminds them that they are not forgotten.
“One thing I like about our master is that he doesn’t postpone his periods, and he makes sure that we understand what he is teaching us before he moves to another topic,” one pupil Mustapha Aqeela said.
Mr. Abdul-Rahaman’s day begins before dawn, navigating roads under military surveillance to reach his classroom to teach with unrelenting passion and energy, unfettered by the security concerns that surround them. His unwavering resolve has earned him the admiration and respect of his pupils, who are inspired by his remarkable resilience in the face of adversity.
“We were in class one morning, and we heard some shooting in town. School children had to return to the classroom. A police officer ran and left his rifle behind. They came back later and picked it up. So that’s what we encounter here daily,” he recounted.
The harsh reality is that Bawku’s schools are grappling with glaring challenges, including dwindling attendance and a severe shortage of teachers. The District Education Directorate acknowledges that the conflict has crippled efforts to maintain a functional education system, leaving schools in a precarious state.
“Many people have refused postings to this area. But for Abdul Fatahu to continue to each in Bawku for 19 years, he deserves an award,” Director of GES, Isaac Agbeko Azasoo, said.
Amidst fear, he chooses courage; amidst conflict, he chooses service. For 19 years, he has been a beacon of stability in a turbulent environment – one teacher standing firm, unwavering in his commitment to his students and community, holding on to the hope that peace will eventually return to Bawku.
“Let’s remember that there’s nothing more precious than having peace in Bawku. Let’s encourage our parents and family members to say no to war and rather choose peace for the development of Bawku,” Mr. Fatahu told his pupils.
In a town ravaged by strife, one individual’s bravery ensures the flame of education continues to flicker.
Meet Teacher Yussif Abdul-Rahaman, standing resolute amidst the turmoil, imparting knowledge one lesson at a time, and keeping hope alive.
