Students of the Garden City Special School in Asokore Mampong, located in the Ashanti region, have been grappling with significant challenges since February 14, 2024. The headmistress of the school, Dr. Roseline Frempomaa Adjepong, revealed to the Ghana News Agency that the school has been plunged into darkness due to electricity issues, and efforts to resolve the situation have been unsuccessful.
In addition to the electricity challenges, the boys' dormitory has also collapsed, forcing students to sleep in classrooms, exposed to the elements. The Garden City Special School serves as a crucial educational facility for learners with special needs, particularly those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, not only in the Ashanti region but also in parts of the Eastern, Western, and Northern Regions. With approximately 192 learners, the school is fully government-subsidized and does not charge any school fees.
Dr. Adjepong expressed her frustration, calling on the government to urgently address the needs of special schools across the country, including the Garden City Special School. Despite efforts by local education authorities and municipal officials to engage the Electricity Company of Ghana in restoring power to the school, no progress has been made.
She emphasized the importance of prioritizing the education of children with disabilities, highlighting their often-neglected status in Ghana. Dr. Adjepong's plea underscores the pressing need for government attention and intervention to ensure that these vulnerable children receive the support and resources they need to thrive in their educational journey.