FASUL’s education initiatives are designed to bridge the gap in access to quality education in underserved areas. By providing essential resources, and infrastructural support, FASUL ensures that children and young adults are equipped with the requisite skill set to develop their potential, build self-confidence, and set higher desirable and achievable goals. A notable aspect of this is the establishment of some low-resource schools across beneficiary communities in the Ashanti and Central regions of Ghana.
Following its establishment in 2009, the Kipharts-Afraku Basic Schools faced numerous challenges, particularly, staffing and management. There was a shortage of teachers and educators were reluctant to accept postings to the school due to inadequate accommodation and the high cost of commuting between the community and town (Juaben) where they always preferred to stay. These challenges were compounded by limited government support and the inability of community leaders to provide essential housing for teachers, leaving the school with no staff and, eventually, no students. This unfortunately led to the collapse of the school.
FASUL, indeed realized that the prevailing conditions that necessitated the establishment of the school were still present. It was further observed in the community that, all children between 1-6 years were not in school. An inquiry into the phenomenon revealed that children of school-going age often walk several kilometers to neighboring towns like Juaben and Atia to attend school; a journey that discouraged those under 6 years to go to school. This has left parents in Afraku with limited options for early childhood education.
Recognizing this significant barrier, FASUL, together with the Afraku community made a call to the Education Directorate of Juaben Municipal for the re-inauguration of the school with a focus on staffing and management. FASUL’s effort in this regard enabled a tripartite arrangement among the Directorate, Community, and FASUL to supervise the school facility for a better plan and projections. While efforts are being made by the Directorate for Government-take-over, it was suggested that the community leaders make arrangements to re-open and keep the school running.
Following that suggestion coupled with the urgency, the community leaders, together with other stakeholders, have arranged and have since started running the school at the foundational levels. The community’s dedication has been remarkable. Leaders have mobilized resources to provide teaching staff, primarily senior high school graduates, to teach the pupils. The school is now entirely managed and funded by the community, signaling their determination to ensure access to education. Happily, community leaders have generously allocated eight hectares of land for potential expansion and other educational purposes; this further demonstrates their commitment to the school’s long-term success.
While the efforts of Afraku community leaders are commendable, their resources alone cannot sustain the school or address its pressing needs. FASUL field team’s recent engagement with the school identified critical challenges, including:
1. Inadequate reading books for young learners.
2. Insufficient teaching and learning materials.
3. A lack of furniture, such as chairs and tables, to create a conducive learning environment
These gaps hinder the school's ability to deliver quality education and meet the aspirations of the children it serves. FASUL together with the Afraku community leaders is calling for support from the government, private individuals, and investors for a better way to enhance teaching and learning in the school. Together, we can provide the resources needed to sustain the school, expand its facilities, and create a nurturing environment for these young learners, our next generation of leaders.
FASUL envisions a future where every child in Afraku has access to quality education, enabling them to reach their full potential. By supporting Afraku Basic School, we are not just addressing immediate educational needs; we are laying the foundation for a society rooted in equity, opportunity, and excellence.
Join us in this transformative journey. Let us nurture these young minds, foster a culture of learning, and build a brighter future for the Afraku community. Together, we can ensure that every child has the chance to thrive. To support this initiative or learn more, contact FASUL today. Your contribution, no matter how small, can make a lasting impact.
