Conflict in Nkwanta South Threatens Children’s Education, Say Educators

The recent unrest in Nkwanta South, Oti Region, is disrupting schooling and hampering pupils’ learning, according to education officials, even as local schools strive to promote literacy and learning among students.

Leticia Afudigo, Schools Improvement Support Officer (SISO) for the Nkwanta East circuit, told Adom News that the Directorate recently organized a Circuit-Level Reading Festival to foster a culture of reading. The festival included activities such as spelling bees and reading competitions aimed at improving children’s literacy and writing skills.

However, Afudigo noted that ongoing conflict in the area has interrupted academic activities, making it difficult for children to attend school regularly and for teachers to maintain consistent learning schedules.

Despite these challenges, support from the Ghana Education Service and the commitment of teachers are gradually encouraging children to return to classrooms. Irean Komla, Early Childhood Coordinator for Nkwanta South, stressed the importance of education for children’s development and urged traditional authorities and community leaders to address the unrest and prioritize schooling.

Nathaniel Kwame Awiaga, Headteacher of Nkwanta English and Arabic School, also called for stronger parental involvement, noting that effective learning requires reinforcement at home. “Teachers cannot do it alone. Parents must engage with their children’s studies to ensure lessons taught in school are not lost,” he said.

Educators hope that a collaborative effort from teachers, parents, and community leaders will help mitigate the impact of the conflict and secure a brighter future for Nkwanta’s children.