The basic school system in Ghana-Attention Needed
The basic school system in Ghana needs much attention from the government of Ghana. the neglect of basic schools in Ghana has been a song on the lips of every citizen in Ghana.
The government of Ghana pays much attention to the second-cycle institutions to the neglect of the primary and junior high schools. In this article, we will look at some of the things that the ministry of education, together with the Ghana Education Service, has neglected at the basic school level.
First of all, let’s take a look at the infrastructure deficit at the basic level. According to education experts’ organizations such as African Education Watch, thousands of schools are still under trees in this 21st century.
Students at this level usually sit under trees with their chalkboards attached to the trees. Also, students sit on stones and blocks because there is no furniture.
Moreover, students at this level are exposed to a lot of danger because of the depilated nature of the structure. Also, dangerous animals are haboured in these structures.
Teaching and learning logistics are lacking at the basic school level in Ghana. The government, through collaboration with the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA), after introducing the standard-based curriculum in 2019 has not provided any materials to that effect.
Currently, there are no textbooks or reading materials for reference. Teachers at this level have to do their own research on what to teach their students. Due to this circumstance, there are inconsistencies in the mode of instructional delivery nationwide.
Teachers’ conditions of service at the basic level are nothing to write home about. The teachers at the second cycle level are a bit lucky to have been put on an intervention allowance which helps boost their morale in the field.
On the other hand, teachers at the primary and JHS levels do not receive any form of allowance aside from their salary. This is one of the major problems faced in the teaching fraternity. Due to the meagre nature of teachers’ salaries, they find the available avenue to make money at the expense of delivering in the classroom.
The government must therefore pay attention to the problems at the basic school level in Ghana to uplift the basic school education system.