Hopeson Adorye calls for more boarding facilities to ease SHS placement challenges

United Party Director Hopeson Adorye has expressed concerns about Ghana's Senior High School (SHS) placement system, highlighting difficulties that students and their families face. During a discussion on the GTV Breakfast Show, Mr Adorye recounted an instance where his brother's son, residing in Accra, was placed in a school in Cape Coast as a day student. This placement raised questions about the feasibility of the system, especially when students are assigned to distant schools without appropriate boarding provisions.

Mr Adorye emphasized that the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) should not be perceived as an exam that dictates a student's future. Instead, he clarified that the BECE serves as a means to place students in secondary schools. He also pointed out that students sometimes choose schools even when they are aware that their grades do not meet the admission requirements. Despite the 36 mark hurdle, some students opt for a school and may not be accepted.

Addressing the existing challenges, Adorye advocated for increased investment in school infrastructure. This includes building additional boarding facilities and e-blocks in schools. He pointed to Aduman Senior High School as an example, explaining that certain facilities' remoteness makes boarding arrangements more practical for students. The Education Minister's plans to upgrade some schools were also welcomed by Adorye, as improved facilities could alleviate pressure on the current placement system.