Ashanti Regional Minister refutes claims of Mankranso classroom demolition

The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has refuted reports that a 12-unit classroom block at Mankranso in the Ahafo Ano South West District is being demolished to make way for a 24-Hour Economy Market. He affirmed during a site visit that the classroom would be restructured and integrated into the market project, preserving its educational function.

Dr. Amoakohene explained this during a meeting with traditional leaders, the District Chief Executive, District Assembly officials, and educational authorities. His statement came after rumors that the District Assembly planned to demolish the classroom block to facilitate the market project. Technical evaluations determined that an alternative site for the market was not viable due to its marshy ground, necessitating significant drainage and engineering work.

Consequently, the decision was made to redesign the existing classroom facility to accommodate aspects of the 24-Hour Economy Market Project. The redesign will include space for lower primary or Kindergarten students, allowing market women to keep their young children with them while conducting business. Dr. Amoakohene reassured traditional authorities and traders that the market would stay at Mankranso.

He emphasized that the project aims to foster inclusive development and meet the community's needs. Daniel Yeboah, the Project Manager of Eco Planners and Engineering Consult Limited, the firm handling the 24-Hour Economy Markets, also confirmed that no structural demolition of the classroom block would occur. Mr. Justin Kwasi Gbotor, the District Director of Education, stated that the unused 12-classroom facility, constructed in 2022, was being reconfigured rather than demolished.

District Chief Executive Mr. Abubakar Sedik also debunked the demolition reports, confirming that no decision had been made to demolish the facility; instead, it would be redesigned for the 24-Hour Economy project.