PRIVATE SCHOOLS ON THE BRINK: MAD. PATRICIA AMANKWAH URGES GOVERNMENT SUPPORT AND REFORMS
The Proprietress of Mama Pat Educational Complex, Mad. Patricia Amankwah, has expressed deep concern and disappointment with the Ghanaian government’s approach to private schools, stating that the current policies are suffocating the sector.
In an exclusive interview with Okesieba Nana Kwaku Asare, Mad. Amankwah lamented that the government’s continuous introduction of reforms without considering the impact on private schools is detrimental to their survival and growth.
“As private schools, we operate without government subsidies, yet the government’s policies seem designed to stifle our growth and innovation,” she stated emphatically.
“Each new reform compels parents to withdraw their wards from private schools, making it increasingly challenging for us to sustain ourselves and provide quality education to our students.”
Mad. Amankwah appealed to the government to provide support and alleviate some of the burdens on private schools, emphasizing that their students are also Ghanaians deserving of quality education.
“If all Ghanaians were to attend government schools, the government would need to invest heavily in infrastructure, including classrooms, facilities, and resources. Since private individuals are contributing to the education sector, the government should create a more favorable environment for us to thrive.”
She also highlighted another significant challenge facing private schools: parents’ expectations and attitudes. “Parents desire quality education for their children, but when asked to provide necessary learning materials, such as textbooks, they often resist.
This attitude hinders the progress of our schools and affects the academic performance of our students.”
Mad. Amankwah’s concerns were raised during the school’s annual graduation ceremony, which was attended by proud parents, students, and dignitaries.
The ceremony marked a significant milestone for the students, who progressed from Nursery to KG, KG to Lower Primary, and Basic 6 to Junior High School.
Mr. Richmond Wiredu, an alumnus of the school, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the guidance and counseling he received at Mama Pat Educational Complex. “The education and mentorship I received at this school have been instrumental in my success.
I’m grateful for the foundation that was laid for me, and I believe that this school has produced many talented individuals who are making a positive impact in their respective fields.”
As the private school sector continues to face challenges, Mad. Amankwah’s plea to the government serves as a wake-up call for policymakers to reassess their approach and provide support to private schools.
By working together, the government and private schools can ensure that Ghanaian children receive quality education, regardless of the type of school they attend.
Source: Okesieba Nana Asare.
