Basic schools across the country yesterday observed the “My First Day at School” programme to welcome pupils beginning their formal education or transitioning from nursery to primary as the 2025/2026 academic year commences.
In Kumasi, the Chief Executive of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), Richard Ofori Boadi Agyemang, visited some schools in the metropolis to mark the occasion.
He was accompanied by officials from the KMA and the Kumasi Metropolitan Directorate of Education.
The team visited TI Ahmadiyya Basic, Garrison Basic, and Sokoban M/A Basic schools, where pupils were presented with exercise books and other learning materials.
At the time of the visit, the schools had recorded a significant number of new enrollments at both Kindergarten and Primary One levels.
Addressing teachers, the KMA Mayor urged them to give their best in shaping the future of pupils through quality education.
He explained that monitoring enrollments at the start of the academic year helps the assembly assess the level of support schools require.
“We have visited about four schools, and I am impressed with the warm reception teachers have given the children,” he said. “I will advise parents who have not yet enrolled their children to do so quickly. From basic to secondary school, and even the first year of university, education is free. Parents must take advantage of this opportunity.”
Mr. Ofori Agyemang Boadi , whose office has recently overseen major educational and health projects in Kumasi, assured teachers of government’s commitment to providing the needed infrastructure and logistics to enhance teaching and learning. He further suggested that parents who deliberately deny their children access to education should face legal consequences.
“If I had my way, I would recommend prosecution for any parent who refuses to send their child to school,” he stated. “Basic and secondary education are free, and even first-year university is free. Beyond that, government has introduced the National Apprenticeship Programme, which gives children who cannot pursue higher education the chance to acquire vocational skills. The future of this country will have no space for those without skills or education.”
At the Garrison BasicMadam Hannah De-Graft, who welcomed the Mayor, expressed appreciation for the visit.
“We are happy to see the Mayor visit us today. The children are excited about the gifts presented to them, and teachers will ensure they use them effectively to support learning,” she said.
She, however, appealed for more support, citing the need for proper furniture, improved sanitary facilities, and the renovation of leaking classroom roofs.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
