The Surano community in the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipality has taken a bold step to renovate a dilapidated school block that has been left to deteriorate for years.
The renovation, which officially commenced this week, was made possible through the personal efforts and funding of the Assembly Member for the area, Hon. Atta Francis. Speaking in an interview, Hon. Francis disclosed that the decision to initiate the project became necessary due to the prolonged delay in receiving external assistance.
According to Hon. Francis, the condition of the school block had become an eyesore, posing a serious danger to both pupils and teachers. “It has taken too long waiting for support, so I decided to use my personal resources to start the renovation,” he explained.
As part of his contribution, the Assembly Member revealed that he has donated 20 bags of cement, gravels, and other essential building materials to kickstart the exercise. He added that with the help of communal labour from the community, the renovation work has finally begun.
Hon. Francis lamented that although several promises had been made by individuals and organizations who earlier expressed interest in supporting the project, none of those pledges have materialized. “There are several individuals who have pledged to support us, but nothing has been received so far,” he stated.
Despite this, the Assembly Member expressed optimism and a strong commitment to ensuring the completion of the renovation. He emphasized that the project is too important to be delayed further, as it directly impacts the future of the children in the community.
He took the opportunity to passionately appeal to the general public, philanthropists, NGOs, corporate organizations, and other well-meaning individuals to come to their aid. “We have started the work already, but we need more support to complete it,” he appealed.
Hon. Francis also commended the community members for their unity and dedication to the project. He described the communal labour as a true demonstration of community spirit and commitment to safeguarding the education of their children, while thanking the people for their remarkable “can-do” spirit.
Residents of the Surano community have welcomed the initiative with joy, describing it as timely and commendable. Some parents expressed relief that the school will soon be safe and conducive for their children to learn.
Hon. Atta Francis assured that with continuous support and the collective effort of the community, the renovation will be completed within the shortest possible time. He stressed that sustained support is needed to restore dignity to the school and improve the quality of education in the area.
