The Principal of Komenda College of Education, Very Rev. Professor Kwesi Nkum Wilson, has called on the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) and the mentoring universities to allow colleges of education with the capacity to add the Mfantse Language, Physical Education, and Music courses at the Junior High School (JHS) level.
Speaking at the college’s 14th graduation ceremony, Professor Wilson expressed concern about the dwindling number of Ghanaian Language teachers in basic schools, particularly in the Central Region.
He urged GTEC and the mentoring universities to intervene to salvage these programs.
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“Last year, I raised concerns about the low number of Ghanaian Language teachers in our basic schools. I requested that my college run the Mfantse Language program, as Mfantse teachers are becoming increasingly scarce, particularly in the Central Region. Our language should be salvaged,” he said.
Professor Wilson also highlighted the shortage of Physical Education and Music teachers.
“Other subject areas suffering from a lack of tutors include Physical Education and Music. GTEC and our mentoring universities should, as a matter of priority, allow colleges with the capacity to add these courses at the JHS level,” he added.
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The Very Reverend Professor Kwesi Nkum Wilson also called on stakeholders to address the issues surrounding the feeding grant that the government provides for teacher trainees.
The Principal stated that, although the feeding grant is commendable, it is woefully inadequate.
According to him, the amount is insufficient to provide three square meals for the students.
He revealed that, as a result, funds designated for the development of the college are being diverted to supplement the feeding grant.
“Laudable as it is, it is woefully inadequate; the amount is not sufficient to provide three square meals for students,” he noted.
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Professor Wilson expressed concern that, in the not-too-distant future, they may be accused as a group of Principals who did not improve the facilities they inherited.
He also mentioned that one issue crippling the colleges is the electricity bills. He noted that between January 2024 and September 2024, the College has paid a staggering GHC 190,776.07 (One Hundred and Ninety Thousand, Seven Hundred and Seventy-Six and Seven pesewas) for electricity.
“Indeed, at one point, we pleaded with the SRC for assistance, and they responded positively; I am grateful to them. The current policy of not billing students for utility usage has resulted in a substantial financial strain on our colleges,” he said.
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He revealed that a significant portion of their Internally Generated Funds (IGF) is being allocated to cover the costs of electricity and water bills.
“The bills incurred from our hostels are so immense that management alone is no longer able to bear this burden. This situation is unsustainable and requires urgent intervention from the relevant stakeholders.”
He believes that a review of the current policy is necessary to ensure the continued provision of quality education without compromising the financial health of the colleges.
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Very Reverend Professor Kwesi Nkum Wilson also respectfully requested the support of the government and all relevant stakeholders to expedite the completion of their ongoing GETFund projects, including their New Administration Block, the 18-Unit Lecture Hall, and the College Auditorium.
According to him, these facilities are crucial for accommodating the activities of the college, especially in light of its recent elevation to university status.
“Two years ago, a contract was signed for the construction of a 300-bed hostel accommodation for Komenda College. I am saddened to say that the contractor has yet to step foot here to even begin the project.”
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The graduation ceremony saw 429 students conferred with degrees. The overall best student (male) was Mr. Moses Coleman, who also served as the Valedictorian. Miss Patience Ayizugu was recognized as the best graduating student (female).
Special awards were also presented to students for academic excellence and contributions to the college’s community development programs.
