The distribution was to facilitate support for teachers, particularly those in Maths, Science and ICT field, to enhance teaching and learning of Maths and Science in schools across the country.

Handing over the supplies, Mr. Alex Kyeremeh, a Deputy Minister Education in charge of Pre-tertiary, said the package was to address the challenges in the educational sector that has led to the low productivity of teachers and students.

He indicated that the presentation formed part of the Education Strategic Plan (ESP) 2010-2020 that has the aim of increasing equitable access to high quality education. Prior to the 2010-2020 ESP, he said Ghana had pursued Free and Compulsory Universal Basic Education (FCUBE) for several years, leading to increased enrolments in all the three sub-cycles of basic education (Kindergarten, Primary and Junior High Schools)’.

“Between 2002/2003 and 2013/2014,  gross enrolment rates increased from 49 to 123 per cent at the Kindergarten and 76 to 107.3 per cent at the primary level while Junior High Level saw an increment from 63 to 82 per cent,” he said..

He, however, acknowledged that the tremendous increase posed some challenges on the quality of teachers, adding that one of the interventions to address the challenge was the procurement of laptops for teachers.

He urged all Metropolitan, Municipal and District Directors of Education to monitor the use and maintenance of the equipment to ensure that the actual benefits were derived. Dr. Peter Atefuah, Greater Accra Regional Director of Education who received the items on behalf of his colleagues said they would reciprocate the investment of the government by remaining committed to their duty.

He stressed the need for proper care amongst teachers and students in order to prolong the lifespan of the laptops.

By Benedicta Folley