The decision to allow first-year students of senior high schools (SHS) to report on Monday, December 4, 2023, has sparked controversy and has been called into question by the Ministry of Education.
Recognizing the need for adequate preparation time for both parents and teachers, the Speaker of Parliament, Alban S. K. Bagbin, has proposed that the reopening date be moved to the first week of January.
To delve deeper into this matter and provide more information on the reopening date, the Education Minister, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, has been invited to appear before the House on Monday, December 4. This invitation aims to facilitate a discussion and gather insights from the Education Minister regarding the decision to reopen schools.
The concerns raised by Peter Kwasi Nortsu-Kotoe, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Akatsi North and Ranking Member on Education, have played a significant role in prompting this discussion.
Nortsu-Kotoe expressed his apprehension about the rushed decision to send students back to school on Monday. Additionally, MPs from the minority side have also voiced their worries about the challenges parents would face in preparing their children for school within such a short timeframe.
They emphasized that the schools’ placement was only released two days ago, leaving parents with limited time to make necessary arrangements.
These concerns highlight the need for a thorough evaluation of the reopening date and the potential impact it may have on students, parents, and teachers. The invitation extended to the Education Minister aims to gather more information, address these concerns, and ensure that the decision made is in the best interest of all stakeholders involved.
The proposed discussion in Parliament and the invitation extended to the Education Minister reflect the government’s commitment to making informed decisions and prioritizing the well-being and preparedness of students, parents, and teachers.
