Navrongo: Professor Clement Ayarebilla Ali, the Principal of St. John Bosco's College of Education, has appealed to the government and key stakeholders for urgent intervention in addressing the college's infrastructure challenges to safeguard teaching and learning.
According to Ghana News Agency, Professor Ali made this call during the 14th congregation ceremony of the College, which coincided with its 96th anniversary. He emphasized that accommodation for both staff and students had become a pressing concern, with some lecturers still residing in bungalows constructed in 1946. The Principal highlighted that the increasing female student population necessitated the conversion of classrooms and old blocks into hostels, a move he described as challenging.
The College, currently accommodating 581 graduating students despite government approval for only 400 admissions, faces financial and operational strains due to this enrolment pressure. Professor Ali stressed the need for additional staff infrastructure, including offices and housing, to support academic activities and improve staff morale and productivity.
While acknowledging recent government support, such as the provision of a Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and the construction of a modern auditorium, Professor Ali pointed out the continued need for investment in infrastructure. He commended the Navro-Pio, Pe Denis Aneakwoa Balinia Adda Asagpare II, for resolving a long-standing land dispute, but emphasized that further investment is needed to address ageing infrastructure and expand facilities.
Professor Ali urged the Ministry of Education, the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), and other partners to prioritize infrastructure funding for Colleges of Education. He warned that neglect could undermine efforts to improve teacher training in the country, especially as the College transitions to a focus on STEM education.
During the ceremony, 581 students graduated from the Junior High School and Upper Primary education programmes. Professor Ali congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to prioritize resilience and impact over their class of degree.
Mr. Haruna Iddrisu, the Minister of Education, recognized the financial and infrastructure needs of Colleges of Education nationwide. He assured that the government is committed to addressing these challenges by seeking seed funding from the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) and developing a new funding formula for 2026. Mr. Iddrisu stated that the government aims to allocate about GH?500 million in the 2027 funding formula, ensuring each institution receives a minimum of GH?10 million to address critical infrastructure needs.