E/R: Okyenhene Calls for Equal Opportunities in Education and Responsible Mining Practices

The Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, has urged the country to make a concerted effort to create equal opportunities for all Ghanaians, especially those in rural communities. According to him, many brilliant children in rural areas lack the same opportunities as their urban counterparts to develop and showcase their talents.

Speaking at a traditional durbar in Wenchi as part of his 25th Anniversary celebrations of ascending the Ofori Panin Stool, Osagyefuo emphasized that providing equal opportunities in education will allow rural children to discover their talents and compete globally. He also highlighted the importance of focusing on women’s empowerment, citing their prudent use of even the smallest investments.

As part of his commitment to education, the Okyenhene has constructed 10 model schools within the Akyem Abuakwa State. The Amoatia Ofori Panin Model Schools, one of which was commissioned in Akyem Wenchi prior to the durbar, consist of nine classrooms, a computer laboratory, ICT centers, a headmaster’s office, and a staff common room. These schools will emphasize mathematics, science, and information technology to equip students with essential skills for the future.

So far, schools in Achiase, Wenchi, Kyebi, and Osino have been commissioned, with more to be inaugurated in the coming weeks.

On the issue of mining, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin clarified that mining itself is not harmful but condemned irresponsible mining practices that destroy water bodies, biodiversity, and the ecosystem. He compared current mining devastation to responsible mining practices of the past, where water bodies were preserved and the environment was protected. 

He lamented the lack of visible benefits in mining communities like Akwatia, Obuasi, and Tarkwa, compared to Johannesburg in South Africa, which has prospered from mining.

In a related development, Oseawuohene Daasebre Dr. Asumadu Appiah, delivering the State of Oseawuo report, announced that the Oseawuo division has successfully halted illegal logging activities in the Kwaebibirim area. He also revealed that efforts to stop illegal mining in the Birim River have resulted in the restoration of the river’s turbidity to normal levels. Nananoom continues to educate the youth on sustainable community mining policies to ensure long-term benefits for the wider community rather than just a privileged few.