“I will ensure educational materials, medical equipment provided are put to good use” - Mayor of Accra

The Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, has reaffirmed his commitment to improving teaching and learning conditions in public schools, stressing that educational resources provided by government must be properly utilized and maintained.

He spoke at a ceremony held at the forecourt of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) in Accra on Thursday, where close to 1,000 desks were presented to selected basic schools and also donated medical equipment to the Metro Health Department, Metro Public Health Department, Ashiedu Keteke Sub-Metro and Ablekuma South Sub-Metro.

Mr. Allotey said the intervention forms part of government's efforts to enhance education and healthcare delivery.

"I am committed to ensuring that the furniture and other educational materials provided to our schools are put to good use," the Mayor stated.

“I would personally monitor the distribution and use of the desks to ensure they serve their intended purpose”

He explained that the initiative aligns with the government's Reset Agenda, which prioritises improving learning environments by providing adequate classroom furniture and essential resources for public schools.

According to him, the desks were procured with Internally Generated Funds (IGF) and must therefore be protected and maintained for the benefit of pupils.

"These items have been provided through taxpayers' money, and we have a responsibility to ensure they are properly used. I will continue to visit schools to inspect the furniture and make sure they are being put to good use," he said.

Beyond education, Mr. Allotey noted that the medical equipment presented to the health directorates and sub-metros would strengthen primary healthcare delivery and improve services to residents within the metropolis.

Touching on sanitation, the Accra Mayor expressed concern over the indiscriminate dumping of refuse into drains, describing the practice as a major contributor to flooding in the capital.

He recalled touring several flood-affected communities after the recent heavy rains and said the situation underscored the urgent need for greater public responsibility.

Although the Assembly has limited logistics, he disclosed that additional trucks had been hired to support waste evacuation across affected communities, while efforts are underway to recruit about 200 town council workers to intensify sanitation activities throughout the city.

Mr. Allotey warned that persons caught dumping refuse into drains would face stiff sanctions, revealing that two suspects had already been arrested and would be prosecuted.

He further announced that the Assembly would reward members of the public with GH¢200 for credible reports, supported by photographic evidence, that lead to the arrest and prosecution of individuals who illegally dispose of waste into drains.

He appealed to residents to support the Assembly's efforts by disposing of waste responsibly, stressing that flooding affects everyone regardless of who causes the blockage.

The Mayor urged all stakeholders to play their part in keeping Accra clean, noting that safeguarding public infrastructure and protecting lives and property requires a collective effort.

On her part, Dr. Louisa Ademki Matey, Metropolitan Director of Health Service for the Accra Metropolis thanked government through the Mayor of Accra for the donation.

She assured that the equipment will be put to very good use.

She stressed that anyone sighted misusing any of the equipment will be dealt with.

Member of Parliament (MP), Odododiodio Constituency, Alfred Nii Kotey Ashie appealed to beneficiaries to protect the equipment presented to them.

He further hinted that persons who flout against sanitation by-laws would face the wrath of the law.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith