A UK-based local philanthropist from Offinso, Mr Richard Agyare, has come to the aid of Asamankama State ‘B’ Basic School in the Offinso Municipality of the Ashanti Region by renovating the school’s dilapidated primary block to create a conducive environment for teaching and learning.
For several years, Asamankama State ‘B’ Basic School had been in a very deplorable condition, posing serious challenges to both pupils and teachers.
The school building had not been painted for over a decade, the floors were badly damaged, and the roofing sheets were rusty, exposing pupils to harsh sunlight and rainfall. These conditions made effective teaching and learning extremely difficult.
According to school authorities, several letters were written to relevant authorities, opinion leaders, well-to-do individuals and philanthropists for assistance, but all efforts proved futile until Mr Richard Agyare, a native of Offinso based in the United Kingdom, responded to their plea.
Through his support, the school building has now been beautifully repainted, restoring its appearance. The floors have been renovated, and the classrooms have received interior decorations, creating a clean, safe and learner-friendly environment for pupils and teachers.
Speaking during the inspection and handing-over ceremony, the Project Coordinator and representative of Mr Agyare, Mr James Nkansah, popularly known as Principal, explained how the intervention came about.
“We received a letter from the school authorities requesting support. When we visited the school to inspect the building, the situation was bizarre and heartbreaking. We could not overlook it, so we decided to step in and help,” he stated.
Mr Nkansah added that although the renovation of the primary block has been completed, his team identified other challenges confronting the school.
“Even though we have finished this project, we have noticed some additional needs of the school. These concerns have been tabled before us, and we will ensure they are attended to as soon as possible,” he assured.
The immediate past Headmaster of the school, Mr Charles Boakye Boakye Ansah, who initiated the appeal for support before his retirement, expressed profound gratitude to the philanthropist.
“This kind gesture will go a long way to enhance teaching and learning in this school. The state of the building was very bad previously, and we are deeply grateful to Mr Richard Agyare and his team for this wonderful intervention,” he said.
The Acting Headmaster, Mr Samuel Agyei Kodua, also appealed for further assistance.
“We humbly plead with them to help us renovate our KG block, which has become a death trap. We have had to evacuate the pupils for their safety,” he disclosed.
Mr Richard Agyare’s benevolence is not new to the people of Offinso. Over the years, he has organised skills training workshops for the youth, constructed boreholes for communities, renovated school buildings, and provided start-up capital to support small businesses.
In recognition of his continuous support and commitment to education, a citation was presented to Mr Richard Agyare on behalf of the school.
By: Nana Yaw Owusu (0240782639).
