Mrs Vicentia Kyere Anin-Agyei, Headmistress of Chemu Senior High School (SHS), says the school’s lack of adequate boarding facilities force some students into living with their boyfriends and girlfriends.
She therefore appealed for the construction of a new facility to enhance students’ welfare and academic performance, when the Parliamentary Select Committee on Education visited the school on Monday, April 28.
“Some of our students are compelled to seek housing near the school and end up cohabiting with their partners. They find themselves in these situations not by choice, but due to necessity,” she explained.
Mrs Anin-Agyei pointed out that daily commuting poses significant challenges for many students, particularly those traveling from far-off locations like Afienya and Kasoa.
“Transportation costs can range from GHS30 to GHS50 each day, which is unaffordable for many parents. This greatly affects student attendance and punctuality,” she said.
Mrs Anin-Agyei also noted that during the recent West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), three students were writing while pregnant.
Given these circumstances, she emphasised the urgent need for a boarding facility to protect students’ welfare, enhance academic performance, and alleviate financial burdens on families.
Despite these challenges, Mrs Anin-Agyei noted that the school has achieved notable academic success over the years, consistently qualifying for the National Science and Maths Quiz since 2021 and being recognised as the best-performing school in the Tema Metropolis since 2022.
Joseph Kwame Kumah, Vice Chairman of the Committee and Member of Parliament for Kintampo North, expressed his gratitude to the headmistress for her insights.
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