Accra: Parents, school authorities and community leaders in Nsawam are appealing to the government and municipal authorities to intervene after a structure located about 10 metres behind the A.M.E. Zion Basic School allegedly became a smoking spot, raising concerns over the safety and well-being of pupils.
According to Ghana Web, the structure, which residents describe as a "wee base," is reportedly accessible through the school's unfenced compound, allowing people to pass directly through the school premises to reach the site. The School Chaplain, Rev Felix Adjei, noted that the proximity of the structure to classrooms and play areas has become a major source of distraction, particularly for kindergarten pupils. He highlighted that while there has been no loud music or excessive noise during class hours, the constant movement of unfamiliar people through the school compound disrupts learning, especially during break periods.
School authorities reported that the issue emerged about a month ago. Although there have been no reported incidents of sexual activity on the school premises linked to the site, concerns remain about the potential risks posed by unrestricted access to the compound. Community leaders have formally reported the matter to the chief and elders, who have acknowledged the concerns and directed that investigations be conducted. Representatives of the school, together with the Municipal Chief Executive, visited the chief's palace to discuss the issue, leading to the questioning of the individual alleged to be responsible for operating the site.
Parents are appealing to the Municipal Coordinating Director, Jasper Adenyo, to use his office's influence to help resolve the situation. School authorities are also calling for immediate measures to secure the school environment, including fencing the school compound and enforcing regulations against smoking and loitering near the school. They emphasize the need for government support to ensure that pupils can learn in a safe and undisturbed environment. As of the time of filing this report, the office of the Municipal Coordinating Director and the relevant authorities had not issued a public response. School authorities welcome the support of the community and the media as they continue to advocate for a safe and secure learning environment for pupils of A.M.E. Zion Basic School.