By Isaac Arkoh
Assin Darmang (C/R), Sept. 10, GNA- Nana Abena Kwantwiwaa I, Krontihemaa of Assin Darmang, has donated assorted teaching and learning materials to several basic schools in the Assin South District.
The gesture formed part of “My First Day at School – Back to School” initiative aimed at encouraging pupils back to the classrooms and promoting quality education.
The donation covered exercise books, pencils, chalk, and supplementary reading books and benefited Nsuaem SDA School, Darmang Catholic School, Living God Preparatory School, Methodist Primary School and Ngresi/Nkran Primary and Junior High Schools.
Presenting the items, the Krontihemaa said the “My First Day at School” concept was designed to give pupils a positive first encounter with the school environment.
In so doing, she said it was hinged on introducing them to teachers and classmates, familiarising them with classroom routines and helping to build curiosity, social bonds, and a strong emotional foundation for future learning.
“The day marks an important milestone in a child’s life,” she said, adding: “We want to create excitement around the reopening of schools and encourage parents and stakeholders to prioritise the education and welfare of our children.”
Nana Kwantwiwaa urged the pupils to take their studies seriously, respect teachers and be disciplined to achieve their academic goals.
She also appealed to parents and guardians to ensure their children report to school promptly and attend classes regularly after reopening.
Mr Isaac Opoku Nkum, Assin South District Director of Education, who accompanied the Krontihemaa on the visits, commended the gesture and described it as a timely complement to the Ghana Education Service’s efforts.
Mr Nkum, however, expressed concern about the tendency of some parents to keep their children away from school at the start of term.
“When schools reopen and a significant number of pupils fail to report, it becomes discouraging to teachers who are well prepared and ready to begin academic work,” he said, adding that poor turnout affected both pupils’ academic progress and teacher morale.
He called for greater cooperation between parents, teachers, and education authorities to ensure regular attendance and improve learning outcomes.
A teacher at Darmang Catholic School said: “We welcome Nana Abena Kwantwiwaa’s donation and believe the ‘My First Day at School’ initiative will motivate pupils to return, settle quickly into classroom routines and improve learning outcomes across our schools.”
A student also told the Ghana News Agency: “We are grateful for the books and supplies; they make us excited to come back to school, help us learn better, and remind us to respect our teachers and work hard.”
GNA
Edited by Alice Tettey/Linda Asante Agyei
Reporter: Isaac Arkoh