Community Engagement: Panacea for Sustainable Basic School Financing

In the ever-evolving horizon of education, the basic schools of Ghana find themselves at a critical juncture. This necessitates a transformative shift beyond the confines of governmental budgets and policy dictates. It is worth acknowledging that, while capitation grants play a crucial role in managing these schools, the fiscal strains on the government mandate a more innovative and community-driven approach.

• Autonomy for SMCs and PAs

The stark reality confronting basic schools extends beyond mere financial injections; it demands a comprehensive strategy rooted in community engagement. It is worth accepting the fact that, these schools are not isolated entities. They are integral components of our communities, and that, urging citizens to recognize their roles as stakeholders in both financial support and holistic development is imperative.

However, amidst the financial constraints on the government is a strategic idea: the granting of autonomy to School Management Committees (SMCs) and Parent Associations (PAs) without interactions from the Ghana Education Service. This autonomy will empower and foster their ability to raise funds and actively participate in managing and enhancing their respective schools. Undeniably, SMCs and PAs, intimately acquainted with the needs of their schools, can play a pivotal role in decision-making, resource allocation, and addressing the unique challenges faced by schools within their communities.

More so, the autonomy that will be bestowed upon these local bodies will not just be a decentralization of power but a recognition of the intimate connection between the community and its schools. With the ability to tailor policies to the specific needs of the local context, SMCs and PAs will become more dynamic agents of positive change. Also, engaging these bodies actively will help tap into the inherent strength of localized solutions and community-driven progress.

• Shifting Mindsets: From Promises to Active Citizen Engagement

To establish it with positive intent, the removal of head teachers may seem punitive but often lacks sustainable remedies for underlying school challenges. Yes, a more sustainable approach will involve open communication, understanding the struggles faced by school leaders, and collaboratively finding solutions. This approach will not only foster innovation but also set the education system on a positive trajectory.

Better still, an integral aspect of community engagement entails stepping into the shoes of education’s frontlines. This includes: understanding the daily challenges of head teachers, teachers, parents, and students. Consequently, this will pave the way for meaningful progress. And the victory goes totally on us. This empathy-driven perspective will lead to informed decision-making and policies resonating with the community’s needs. As an indisputable fact, encouraging active involvement in school affairs, from parent-teacher meetings to volunteering opportunities, will help promote a sense of collective responsibility and shared ownership in the educational journey of learners.

Moreover, shifting mindsets will require a departure from the rhetoric of providing everything for free. Instead, there is a need to educate parents about their pivotal role in elevating school standards. This should capture; and emphasise their integral part in government, citizens should actively participate in initiatives that will enhance education quality. The government cannot do it all alone. When this is done, we have established a sense of partnership between the government, schools, and parents, where each party contributes actively to the shared goal of nurturing a well-rounded and educated citizenry.

• Conscientizing the Citizenry

In furtherance, it is important to understand that, the constitutional mandate for free compulsory universal basic education is undeniably noble. However, its realization hinges on  the populace. This involves not only advocating for birth control but also empowering individuals to achieve financial independence. A financially sound populace committed to the nation’s welfare is more likely to contribute actively to the success of education initiatives.

On the other hand, this needs to extend beyond family planning to fostering financial literacy and independence. Educational programs aimed at equipping individuals with the skills to manage their finances empower citizens to make informed decisions about their children’s education. By ensuring that, families are financially prepared to support their children’s educational journey, we will address a critical aspect of sustaining free and quality education.

Conclusion

In essence, achieving the dream of free and quality education in Ghana requires fostering a profound love for the nation. This love should translate into tangible actions, with citizens working tirelessly and collaboratively, placing Ghana’s interests at the forefront. The collective effort of loving and working for Ghana will usher in the realization of the shared dream of enjoying free and quality education together. As we navigate the intricate terrain of educational policies and community engagement, let us not lose sight of the ultimate goal of Ghana where education is a beacon of hope, fuelled by the collective commitment of its citizens. It is through unity, hard work, and placing Ghana first that we can overcome the challenges facing our basic schools and pave the way for a brighter future for the generations to come. This collaborative spirit, anchored in community engagement and shared responsibility, is the key to unlocking the full potential of Ghana’s Pre-tertiary educational system.

 

BY: WISDOM KOUDJO KLU, EDUCATIONIST/COLUMNIST, GREATER ACCRA REGION.