By Frederick Ofori Agyemang
The AME Anne Heath Academy, which is situated at the Oforikrom Municipal Assembly in Kumasi, Ghana, needs help. The school was built around 1935 among other schools owned by the African Methodist Episcopal Church, but has now been taken over by the government and other individuals. Historical records show that the Anne Heath Academy now survives with a total population of about sixty-five (65) students, not to even talk of the lack of its facilities.
A research was conducted on the school, and the following were some of the findings gathered;
- Infrastructure Challenges: Poor condition of the school compound; Leaking of the newly built story building; Absence of a functioning vehicle; Poor advertisement of the school; and Unattractive classroom settings
- Teaching and Learning Resources: Insufficient textbooks and learning materials, ICT equipment, and limited teaching aids.
- Staffing Issues: Inadequate number of teachers; Lack of qualified subject specialists; Delays in staff recruitment; Low staff salary and limited welfare support
- Financial Constraints: Insufficient funding; Reduction of connectional support from $550 to $419; Payment of Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) penalty of more than ₵24,000; and Low-income generation
- Administrative Challenges: Weak record-keeping systems; Limited supervision and monitoring
The above challenges have resulted in declines in academic performance and student motivation, as well as a decrease in the student population. There is also difficulty in implementing the curriculum effectively, which strains existing staff and results in a poor overall school environment.
We are therefore appealing to stakeholders, old students, the family of Ms. Anne Heath, and all concerned conferences of the AME Church worldwide to come and help raise the school to its former state.
If not addressed, these challenges may continue to negatively affect the school’s performance and reputation.
To support or receive additional information, please contact +233 24 316 7846 (WhatsApp) +244 50 453 4610, or email fredypat98@gmail.com.
