Galamsey is destroying education and our future – CHASS Warns

The Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) has raised concerns about the damaging effects of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, on education in Ghana.

In a communiqué issued after its 63rd Annual National Conference in Sunyani, CHASS called for urgent and decisive action to stop the practice, noting that students are increasingly getting involved in illegal mining at the expense of their studies.

The group also expressed alarm over the destruction of school lands.

“We join the national call for urgent and decisive action to curb this threat,” CHASS stated.

“If the menace is unchecked, it could have dire consequences for the nation’s future.”

The conference, held from October 6 to 12 at the University of Energy and Natural Resources, brought together heads of secondary schools to reflect on key issues affecting education.

This year’s theme focused on creating a comprehensive, equitable, and sustainable education system.

In addition to the galamsey threat, CHASS listed 14 critical issues requiring government attention.

These include financial constraints, delays in the release of funds, a reversal of food procurement policies, and shortages in teaching and non-teaching staff.

CHASS also expressed concern about growing indiscipline among students and teachers and recommended the recruitment of trained security personnel for all senior high schools.

They also called for stricter enforcement of teacher conduct guidelines to ensure student safety.

Despite the challenges, CHASS acknowledged the government’s efforts such as the Free SHS policy, the return of PTAs, and the planned transition to a single-track academic calendar by 2027.

The association reaffirmed its commitment to working with the government and stakeholders to improve secondary education in Ghana.