Hwediem SHS students demonstrate over poor facilities, payment of unapproved fees

Students at Hwediem Senior High School (SHS) in the Ahafo region protested against their school's management. They are unhappy about poor sanitary and academic facilities. They also object to constant demands for unapproved fees.

On Tuesday, many students, mostly boys, marched through the school. They expressed their frustration over ongoing discomfort since 2013.

Sulemana Yahaya, the Boys Senior Prefect, spoke to JoyNews. He mentioned that the wood logs on their open toilet are weak. The unbearable stench and heat create a health risk.

He listed other pressing issues as well. Students receive unsatisfactory meals in both quality and quantity. There is also inadequate furniture and resources in classrooms, science labs, and computer labs.

"Students often have to contribute money for teaching materials," he said. "We lack books, beds, and other essential items."

The students accused school authorities of charging an unapproved GH₵250 PTA fee each term. They also claimed that students must bring 10 bags of cement if they go to town.

"We have suffered for over two years," they stated. "Despite our complaints, nothing has changed. We demand accountability from the school."

Calm has returned to the school now. Teaching and learning continue smoothly with police support.

The Asutifi District Directorate of the Ghana Education Service (GES) assured parents that these issues will be resolved amicably.