channel247 online
The Headmaster of St. Augustine’s College in Cape Coast has raised concerns about the deteriorating condition of the school’s infrastructure, attributing the damage to persistent sea erosion caused by the institution’s proximity to the coastline.
Speaking during the school’s 96th Speech and Prize-Giving Day, Rev. Father Dr. Patrick Appiah noted that the school’s closeness to the sea has increasingly exposed several facilities to the destructive impact of strong waves and coastal erosion.
In an interview with Channel 247 News’ Yaw Boagyan, the headmaster explained that some key structures, including the dining hall and assembly hall, have suffered significant deterioration and require urgent repairs to ensure the safety of students and staff.
He added that several classrooms and student dormitories are also in need of major refurbishment to maintain a conducive environment for teaching and learning.
According to him, the worsening condition of some buildings poses a serious concern and requires immediate attention from stakeholders.
Rev. Fr. Appiah therefore appealed to old students, non-governmental organisations and philanthropists to support the school in rehabilitating the affected facilities.
Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament for Akuapem North Constituency and an alumnus of the school, Sammy Awuku, also called on the government to take steps to address the infrastructure challenges facing the institution.
He indicated that the increasing student population has placed additional pressure on existing dormitory facilities, many of which require extensive renovation due to the effects of sea erosion.
Mr. Awuku further advised students to remain disciplined and cautioned against acts of violence during inter-school sporting activities.
He condemned recent incidents of attacks involving senior high schools and urged authorities, including the Ministry of Education, to enforce strict measures to curb indiscipline, alcoholism, drug abuse and other negative influences among students.
The legislator called for a united effort among teachers, government and other stakeholders to address these challenges and promote discipline across senior high schools in the country.
Yaw Boagyan
