Honourable Gifty Twum-Ampofo, Member of Parliament for Abuakwa North Constituency and former Deputy Minister of Education in charge of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), has called on parents to ensure their children attend school on their first day to help them familiarize themselves with their teachers and the school environment.
This appeal was made during her tour of 13 selected basic schools on September 10, 2024, reopening day. Accompanied by the Municipal Education Director, Mrs. Grace Adza-Awude, Hon. Twum-Ampofo distributed educational materials, biscuits, and drinks to new pupils, encouraging them to embrace their new academic journey.
During her visits, Hon. Twum-Ampofo noted a low turnout of pupils and used the opportunity to urge parents and guardians to prioritize their children’s education. She emphasized the importance of regular attendance and punctuality, particularly on the first day of school, as a foundation for academic success.
“Early childhood is crucial in any individual’s life. The government and opinion leaders are doing all they can to make the first day of school, especially for KG1, KG2, and Class 1, a memorable experience. Parents need to bring their young children to school to help them get familiar with their teachers and surroundings, so they know where to turn whenever they have grievances,” she stated.
Hon. Twum-Ampofo expressed concern over the low attendance at most of the schools she visited. She urged parents to foster a positive attitude toward school, encouraging their children to enjoy the learning environment. She called on all stakeholders and community leaders to take ownership of local schools, regularly visit, and interact with teachers to understand their challenges and collaborate on solutions.
She highlighted the importance of parental, community, and school collaboration in instilling good cultural values in pupils, contributing to the socio-economic development of the country. Hon. Twum-Ampofo also encouraged parents, teachers, and leaders to inspire the “can-do” spirit in pupils, echoing the sentiments of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to make Ghana a better place.
In addition to her interactions, Hon. Twum-Ampofo used the opportunity to inspect near-completion and ongoing projects at various stages of development, noting that work is progressing steadily. Some of the schools visited included Anweabeng M/A KG, New Tafo Besease Basic, New Tafo Methodist Basic, Aboabo M/A Basic, Anyinasin Methodist Basic, Anyinasin Presbyterian Basic, Old Tafo Presbyterian Basic, Mid Tafo Presbyterian Basic, New Tafo SDA Basic, Kukurantumi R/C Basic, Kukurantumi Methodist Basic, Sokode Guaso M/A Basic, and Bediasi M/A KG.
Mrs. Grace Adza-Awude, Municipal Education Director, stressed the significance of the “My First Day at School” program, noting that the presence of prominent figures and the distribution of gifts make the day special for children, encouraging them to attend. She shared her concerns about the low turnout and pledged to work with headteachers to make the first day a welcoming and engaging experience for all pupils.
Mrs. Adza-Awude also praised Hon. Twum-Ampofo for her continued support in promoting quality and accessible education in the municipality. She emphasized that a collaborative approach involving parents, teachers, and community members is essential to raising educational standards and contributing to the country’s socio-economic growth.
Both Hon. Twum-Ampofo and Mrs. Adza-Awude called on all stakeholders to unite in their efforts to make education a priority, ensuring that every child values and benefits from their schooling experience.
