Lusaka: In a move that promises to transform the everyday learning experience of millions of Ghanaian children, President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to provide two million desks to basic schools across the country by the end of 2026. Speaking to the Ghanaian community in Zambia during his three-day state visit, President Mahama highlighted the urgent need to address the long-standing neglect of basic school infrastructure.
According to Ghana Web, President Mahama emphasized the issue of many young learners attending school without desks, often sitting on the floor and writing on their laps. He pointed out that while the previous government focused on the Free SHS program, basic schools were neglected. President Mahama pledged that by 2028, no Ghanaian pupil would have to sit on the floor to study.
Currently, about 1.2 million children attend classes without proper seating, a situation that education experts say hampers both learning and concentration. The announcement has been warmly welcomed by education stakeholders.
Kofi Asare, the Executive Director of the Africa Education Watch, an education think tank, praised the government for prioritizing the comfort and well-being of students. He expressed hope that the desks would arrive quickly, acknowledging that this change has been long overdue and will make a significant difference in the lives of children.
For Ghana's young learners, the promise of a proper desk is more than just furniture; it's a symbol that their education matters.