AMECO students endure harsh cold as college lacks auditorium - Principal renews appeal for infrastructure support
Students of the E.P. College of Education, Amedzofe (AMECO) in the Ho West District of the Volta Region continue to endure harsh weather conditions during formal functions, as the college lacks an auditorium.
Amedzofe, Ghana’s highest human settlement, is known for its extremely cold climate, with temperatures sometimes dropping as low as 10 degrees Celsius. However, due to the absence of an auditorium, students are compelled to attend formal gatherings in the open, exposing them to the biting cold.
The college’s 200-capacity assembly hall, constructed decades ago, is now inadequate for its current enrolment of 1,054 students.
At the college’s 18th matriculation ceremony last Friday, the Principal, Dr Dickson Tsey, renewed his appeal to the government and well-meaning stakeholders to support the construction of a modern auditorium for the institution.
He emphasised that the lack of an auditorium negatively impacts learning quality and affects the general wellbeing of students and staff. Essential activities such as worship, cultural events, and some academic engagements are conducted in the open, leaving students and staff at the mercy of the harsh weather.
Dr Tsey also lamented the stalled construction of a four-storey GETFund female hostel project, which remains at the foundation level with no contractor showing interest in its completion.
He called on well-meaning individuals and government representatives to support its completion.
He further highlighted the poor road network leading to the college, which he described as a major challenge for accessibility. He noted that the deteriorating condition of the roads has placed an additional burden on management, making it difficult for staff and students to reach the campus with ease.
Additionally, he underscored the urgent need for more male hostels, staff accommodation, and additional office spaces to create an environment conducive to excellence.
This year, the college admitted 315 students, comprising 143 for B.Ed JHS Education, including 64 females, 128 for B.Ed Primary Education, including 70 females, and 44 for B.Ed Early Childhood Education, including 31 females. Thirty-two applicants were admitted for B.Ed Basic Education (French Specialism).
Dr Tsey reaffirmed AMECO’s commitment to gender inclusivity, stating that the college’s Affirmative Action Policy and Gender Inclusive Policy continue to provide tertiary education opportunities for women.
He noted that the number of female students admitted outweighed their male counterparts, reflecting the college’s effort to bridge the gender gap in education.
The principal also stated that AMECO offers admission to talented athletes, ensuring that they meet the minimum academic requirements while also demonstrating sporting ability. This initiative, he explained, aims to provide opportunities for students to develop their sporting talents while pursuing higher education.
He encouraged newly admitted students to be resilient and courageous, describing their admission as the beginning of a promising journey.
The Member of Parliament for Afram Plains, Worlase Kpeli, an alumnus of AMECO and special guest at the event, urged fresh students to embrace the teaching profession, describing it as a gateway to diverse and rewarding career opportunities.
He emphasised that teaching provides a strong foundation that can lead to many other lucrative professions.
