Equal opportunities must be created for both urban, rural children – Okyenhene

The Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, has called for equal opportunities for all Ghanaians, particularly those living in rural areas. Speaking at a traditional durbar in Akyem Wenchi, the seat of the Oseawuo division in the Akyem Abuakwa State, Osagyefuo emphasized that many gifted children in rural communities lack the opportunities that their urban counterparts have to nurture and develop their talents.

The event was part of the 25th anniversary celebrations of his reign, during which the Okyenhene stressed the importance of creating a level playing field in education and other sectors to help rural children compete effectively. He also highlighted the need for focused attention on women’s empowerment, noting that women have consistently shown great resourcefulness when given opportunities and support.

“We must invest in our children’s education and ensure that they have the necessary tools to be competitive. Women, in particular, have proven to be wise stewards of resources. It is vital that we support them,” Osagyefuo said.

As part of his ongoing commitment to education, the Okyenhene has initiated the construction of 10 model schools across the Akyem Abuakwa State. The Amoatia Ofori Panin Model Schools are designed with 9 classrooms, computer labs, ICT centers, headmaster’s offices, and staff common rooms. He commissioned the Amoatia Ofori Panin Model School in Akyem Wenchi prior to the durbar, reiterating that the schools will focus heavily on Mathematics, Science, and Information Technology, key subjects for the future workforce.

Osagyefuo also stressed the importance of integrating science and technology skills at the basic school level, noting the necessity of preparing children for a rapidly evolving world. Schools in Achiase, Wenchi, Kyebi, and Osino have already been commissioned, with more to follow in the coming weeks.

Addressing environmental concerns, the Okyenhene acknowledged that while mining is not inherently harmful, the irresponsible methods currently in use are causing severe damage to water bodies, biodiversity, and ecosystems. He contrasted the environmentally-conscious mining practices of past generations with the current devastation caused by modern methods, particularly the use of chemicals like mercury in rivers.

“Mining was once done responsibly here without destroying our water bodies or the environment. Why, then, are we allowing this destruction now?” he asked.

Drawing comparisons between Ghana’s mining communities such as Akwatia, Obuasi, and Tarkwa, and Johannesburg in South Africa, Osagyefuo lamented that local mining towns have little to show in terms of development, despite years of mining activity.

In his report, Oseawuohene Daasebre Dr. Asumadu Appiah, the leader of the Oseawuo division, informed the Okyenhene that illegal lumbering within the Kwaebibirim area has been halted. He also noted that efforts to stop illegal mining in and around the Birim River have been successful, with the river’s turbidity levels now restored to normal. The division continues to educate the youth about sustainable community mining practices that aim to benefit the larger population, rather than a privileged few.