Education Ministry commits to hygienic learning environments

The Ministry of Education has pledged to ensure children across Ghana study in safe and hygienic environments with access to clean water and sanitation facilities.

Deputy Education Minister Dr. Clement Apaak gave the assurance during the WASH in Schools Policy Dialogue and launch of the 6th Child Sanitation Diplomat’s one-year campaign in Accra.

Dr. Apaak said government recognised that proper sanitation and hygiene were essential to quality education and student wellbeing.

“At the Ministry of Education, we recognise that a conducive learning environment goes beyond classrooms, textbooks, laptops, and qualified teachers,” he stated.

“It must also include access to clean drinking water, decent toilet facilities, and proper hygiene services.”

Dr. Apaak noted that poor sanitation conditions in schools continue to affect the dignity, attendance and academic performance of learners, particularly in public basic schools.

According to him, figures from the 2020 Education Management Information System report show that 25 percent of public basic schools in Ghana do not have access to safe drinking water, while 26 percent lack improved toilet facilities.

He said the situation affects more than 1.5 million pupils in public schools and over 314,000 pupils in private schools nationwide.

“We acknowledge that years of inadequate investment, weak prioritisation, and neglect have contributed to this unfortunate reality,” Dr. Apaak said.

“However, government remains determined to address these challenges decisively.”

He explained that government was working with Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies, development partners, Corporate Ghana and civil society organisations to improve water, sanitation and hygiene conditions in schools.

Dr. Apaak further assured stakeholders that future school infrastructure projects would prioritise sanitation and hygiene facilities.

“I wish to assure you that under the leadership of His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, no new school infrastructure project will be undertaken without the full provision of water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities,” he said.

He also urged organisations and individuals to support efforts aimed at promoting sanitation awareness and healthier learning environments for children across the country.