Sissala West MP launches maiden teacher awards and scholarship scheme

Mohammed Adams Sukparu, Member of Parliament for the Sissala West Constituency and Deputy Minister for Communication, Digital Technology & Innovations, initiated the maiden Sukparu Best Teachers and Scholarship Award programme to commemorate May Day at the Sissala West GES Directorate at Gbollu. The ceremony aimed "to recognise the relentless dedication of local educators while providing critical financial backing to advancing students in the district."

Acting District Director of Education for Sissala West, Chakurah Dramani, said, "Our district is facing a serious challenge," revealing a teaching staff shortage of about 247. Mohammed Adams Sukparu said his inspiration came from his own life story: "Having started from a humble beginning, I saw the importance of a teacher right from the 'under tree' where we started our education." A total of 365 continuing students are benefiting from the scholarship initiative, which is valued at over 500,000 Ghana Cedis. The scheme fully absorbs the fees for students from the district pursuing critical professional courses such as medicine, law, engineering, and computer science. Mohammed Adams Sukparu also noted broader educational interventions including "providing 10 laptop computers and constructing an ultra-modern office complex and library to enhance education delivery".

Upper West Regional Director of Education, Madam Alice Ellen Abeere-Inga, cautioned the youth in the district, "What our youth are looking for today is quick money. They don't want anything that will let them feel a bit of pain," and urged them to "concentrate on your education, and when you become who you are, you can make the money that you want? Please do not disappoint us." Six retired educators were each presented with a cash prize of 2,000 Ghana Cedis. Top-performing educators took home prizes such as motorbikes, flat-screen LED televisions, laptops, and refrigerators.