Galamsey 'stealing' boys from classrooms in Bongo – DCE raises alarm

The Bongo District Chief Executive (DCE), Diana Asoketarige Ayamga, has expressed concern over the low participation of boys in some schools across the district, attributing part of the challenge to their involvement in illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

According to Madam Ayamga, the growing attraction of young boys to illegal mining activities is drawing some of them away from the classroom and putting their education, safety and prospects at risk.

She raised the concern during this year’s “My First Day at School” exercise, when a delegation from the Bongo District Assembly and the Ghana Education Service visited selected basic schools in the district to welcome pupils to the new academic year.

The delegation, which included the District Director of Education, Michael Nyaaba Ayamdor, visited Goo Primary School, Nayorigo Primary School, Nabiisi Primary School, Balungo Primary School and Father Label R/C Primary School.

Madam Ayamga said the low participation of boys observed during the visits was worrying and called on parents and guardians to take a more active role in ensuring that their sons enrol in school, attend regularly and remain focused on their education.

She cautioned that although illegal mining may provide young people with immediate income, its long-term consequences could be damaging to their education, personal safety and future opportunities.

The DCE therefore urged parents, teachers and other community stakeholders to work together to encourage children to develop a positive attitude towards education from an early age.

Mr. Ayamdor, for his part, urged pupils to take their education seriously by attending school regularly, arriving on time and demonstrating discipline and commitment in their studies.

He stressed that consistent attendance and dedication to learning were essential to helping pupils achieve their educational goals.

Madam Ayamga also raised concerns about the kinds of food and snacks being sold to pupils within school premises.

She expressed particular concern about the sale of toffees and other foods she considered unhealthy and encouraged school authorities to pay greater attention to the nutritional quality of food available to children during school hours.

As part of the “My First Day at School” exercise, the delegation distributed exercise books, pencils and assorted drinks to pupils as a gesture to welcome them to the new academic year.

The annual exercise forms part of efforts by the Bongo District Assembly and the Ghana Education Service to promote school enrolment, regular attendance and a positive start to the academic year.