Education think tank Education Policy Institute Africa (EDUPA) is advocating strongly the inclusion of the Minister of Education in the 13-member inter-ministerial committee charged to address issues relating to the flood caused by the recent spillage of excess water from the Akosombo Dam.
The committee was established on the instruction of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
The Chief of Staff is the Chair.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, October 17, EDUPA argued that the spillage-induced floods have inflicted substantial damage to schools.
“Classrooms, libraries, laboratories workshops and other essential facilities have been destroyed or severely damaged, depriving students of a conducive learning environment,” the statement issued by Executive Secretary Mark Ewusi Arkoh noted.
“Moreover, educational materials, such as textbooks and other essential materials have been damaged.
“We firmly believe that the adverse impact on education should be a central concern for the committee tasked with recovery efforts.
“By including the expertise and guidance of the Minister of Education, the committee will be better equipped to develop comprehensive plans and strategies to mitigate the impact on students and educational institutions.”
EDUPA pitched that the Education Minister “can provide valuable insights and expertise regarding the immediate and long-term needs of affected students and schools”.
“Their involvement will help ensure that educational facilities are restored or rebuilt promptly, and that students can resume their education as soon as possible.
“Additionally, the Minister can collaborate with relevant stakeholders to coordinate the provision of temporary learning spaces, materials, and resources, enabling disrupted schooling to continue during the recovery phase.”
It observed that there is a psychological and emotional concern to address among affected students.
“The Minister of Education can contribute to the development and implementation of support programs that cater to the trauma experienced by students due to this natural disaster.
“These programmes can provide counseling services, mental health support, and additional resources to help students cope with the challenges they face.
“Including the Minister of Education in the committee will ensure that the voices and concerns of students, parents, and educators are adequately represented and considered when making decisions regarding the recovery process.”
Among the sector ministers in the committee are those at National Security, Interior, Defence, Energy, Finance, Local Government, Works and Housing, Roads and Highways, Environment, Sanitation, Lands and Natural Resources, and Information.
Meanwhile, calls are rife for the Health Minister and the Gender Minister to also be part of the committee.