The Sokode Senior High Technical School (SHTS) has officially launched its maiden hymnal in a colourful ceremony that brought together students, teachers, alumni, and key stakeholders in education.
The launch, which marks a significant milestone in the school’s musical journey, has also reignited calls for better resourcing of schools offering music as a course in the Volta Region.
The Head of the Music Department at Sokode SHTS, Mr. Obed Sena Okyere, expressed pride in the department’s achievements in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), but lamented the lack of essential facilities to support the teaching and learning of music.
“Although the school has done well in the WASSCE in the Music Area, the department is lacking a whole lot of musical instruments,” Mr. Okyere said.
“We need keyboards, drums, brass instruments, and even a modest studio setup to give students the hands-on experience they need. I am appealing to government agencies, private institutions, and philanthropists to support us.”
The Headmaster of Sokode SHTS, Mr. Isaac Kofi Dzidzienu, described the hymnal launch as a “critical moment” in the school’s development and stressed its potential impact on music education.
“The launch of the hymnal is not just symbolic, it is a transformative step that will shape the school’s musical prowess,” he noted. “But we cannot go far if the music department continues to struggle with basic instruments and resources. We’re calling on the Ministry of Education, the Ghana Education Service, and all well-meaning individuals to support this noble cause.”
The Volta Regional Director of Education, Mr. Francis Yao Agbemadi, who graced the occasion, lauded the initiative and emphasised the need to invest in creative arts education, especially music.
“Schools offering music in the region should be supported to develop talents in that area,” Mr. Agbemadi stated.
“Music is not just an extracurricular activity, it is a viable career path and an important part of our cultural identity. Equipping schools with instruments and recording studios will go a long way to nurture the next generation of musicians and composers.”
The hymnal, which features a rich blend of traditional and contemporary gospel songs, is expected to be used during school assemblies, worship sessions, and music lessons. It is also seen as a tool to instill discipline, spirituality, and unity among students.
By: Desmond Selase Aggor
