Bawku: Conflict makes teachers refuse posting to BAWSCO – Headmaster laments, appeals for resolution

Reverend Dr. Sylvester Agalga, Headmaster of Bawku Senior High School (BAWSCO), is urging the government, security agencies, and residents of Bawku to end the ongoing conflict in the area, which is negatively affecting education.

Speaking at the launch of BAWSCO's 60th-anniversary celebrations, themed, "Promoting Moral and Academic Excellence in the Midst of 21st Century Challenges,” in Accra, Reverend Dr. Agalga said the conflict has made it difficult for the school to retain teachers, resulting in a shortage of educators in key subjects like science, social studies, and English language. 

He revealed that since he became headmaster in 2018, 19 teaching staff have transferred from the school due to the conflict.

Many teachers from southern Ghana refuse postings to Bawku, while some who accept transfer requests leave after a few months.

"BAWSCO lacks teachers in integrated science, social studies, and English language as many posted teachers deny posting or get transferred for fear of the conflict," Reverend Dr. Agalga stated.  

The headmaster also disclosed that the school's female students practice open defecation due to a blocked toilet, an unfortunate situation for a 60-year-old institution.

He appealed to old students to help address the issue. 

Despite the challenges, Reverend Dr. Agalga announced that BAWSCO's pass rate has significantly improved, rising from 3% in 2018 to 74.5%  in 2021.

According to him, the school has won regional and national awards and trophies.  

Notable guests at the 60th-anniversary launch included Prof. Helen Yitah, BAWSCO alumna and Dean of Languages at the University of Ghana.

She praised the school's milestone achievement and urged old students to support the institution.