The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has donated educational and administrative equipment valued at over GH¢70,000 to Sombo Senior High School in the Nadowli-Kaleo District, following urgent appeals from students and school authorities.
The donation was presented during a colourful ceremony marked by a traditional welcome, with students showcasing cultural performances. The event highlighted both appreciation for the support and ongoing calls for improved infrastructure.
Mr Bagbin explained that his intervention was triggered by a letter from the school dated January 29, 2026, as well as reports of students struggling with inadequate learning materials. He said he was moved by what he described as “desperate voices” from the school community.
He emphasised that investing in education is critical and likened the school to a growing institution that requires continuous support to thrive. According to him, resilience and sustained effort are key to building strong educational institutions.
The donated items aim to improve both teaching and administrative functions. The Home Economics Department received essential equipment, including cooking stoves, sewing machines, a refrigerator, utensils and worktables. Additional items such as computers, laptops, a printer, a photocopier and library boards were provided to support academic work and administration.
To promote cultural education, the Speaker also donated musical instruments, including a xylophone and a talking drum.
Mr Bagbin urged school authorities to take proper care of the equipment to ensure long-term benefits for students. He noted that the items should not only improve academic performance but also positively impact students’ overall development.
Despite the support, the school continues to face serious infrastructure challenges. Headmaster Batholomew Mosongsieyiri revealed that several projects, including a girls’ dormitory, dining hall and classroom blocks, remain incomplete. He appealed for urgent assistance to address these gaps.
The school, which began as a community day institution in 2016 with just 25 students, now has an enrolment of 78 after being absorbed into the public system in 2019.
Local leaders commended the Speaker for his gesture. District Chief Executive Merry Haruna described the donation as a strong commitment to education and inclusive development. The Municipal Director of Education for Lawra, Francis Cudjoe, also urged the school to use the equipment effectively to improve learning outcomes.
Traditional authorities, including the Chief of Sombo, Naa Naamuo Yelpoi II, expressed gratitude and encouraged continued support for the community.
Board Chairman Felix Sibiri, while thanking the Speaker, raised concerns about security at the school, noting the absence of officially appointed personnel. He assured that management would collaborate with local volunteers to safeguard the equipment.
