The Nkwanta Senior High Technical School (SHTS) in the Oti Region has recorded an alarmingly low turnout as schools officially reopened nationwide for first-year students, with only four new students reporting on the first day.
Despite having the capacity to admit over 700 students, management revealed that the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) assigned only 190 students to the school this year — representing less than 30 percent of its available space. Even more concerning, out of those allocated, barely 60 accepted the offer, and only four physically reported to begin classes.
Conflict’s Lasting Impact on Education
School officials have linked the extremely poor enrolment to the armed conflict that led to the temporary closure of the school in June 2025. The unrest, which disrupted academic activities across parts of Nkwanta South, continues to cast a shadow over education in the region, as parents remain fearful about the safety of their children.
During a visit to the school on Monday, October 20, Adom News reporter Obrempongba Owusu observed that while the student turnout was minimal, the teaching staff were present in large numbers, demonstrating commitment to restarting the academic year.
The few students who reported expressed deep relief at being back in class after months of uncertainty. They appealed to their peers to return and join them, describing the area as “peaceful and calm” once again.
“We’ve lost valuable learning time because of the conflict. Now that peace has been restored, we hope our friends will come back. We want to learn without fear,” one of the students said.
School Authorities Appeal for Support
The Headmaster, Mr. Emmanuel Atimemo, acknowledged that many parents remain hesitant to send their children back due to lingering fear, but assured them that security has been fully restored in Nkwanta South.
“The environment is safe for teaching and learning. We encourage parents to have confidence in the system and allow their children to return,” Mr. Atimemo said.
He also appealed to the government and the Ministry of Education to provide additional boarding facilities, noting that secure housing would encourage students from distant communities to enrol.
“More boarding spaces will guarantee safety and make our school more attractive to parents who fear for their children’s wellbeing,” he added.
Urgent Call for Action
Education authorities now face a dual challenge: rebuilding public confidence in the region’s safety while addressing critical infrastructure gaps that continue to discourage enrolment.
Without swift action, hundreds of students risk losing access to education — a potential long-term consequence of the instability that once gripped the area.
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