Accra College of Education Faces Enrollment Challenges Due to Infrastructure Deficit
By Africazine
In a heartfelt plea to the Ghanaian government, Professor Samuel Awinkene Atintono, Principal of the Accra College of Education, highlighted the pressing issue of infrastructural inadequacies that are hampering student enrollment. Speaking on March 15 during the Seventh Matriculation ceremony, he underscored how these challenges affect the college’s capacity to nurture the future educators of Ghana.
Out of a total of 1,146 qualified applicants for the upcoming 2024/25 academic year, only 430 students secured admission, translating to a mere 37.52% acceptance rate. The gender distribution of those admitted shows a notable trend, with 156 males (36.28%) and 274 females (63.72%), reflecting an encouraging interest from female candidates in pursuing education.
Professor Atintono pointed out that the college’s struggle isn’t an isolated case but rather indicative of a wider challenge faced by all 46 colleges of education across Ghana. Since their elevation from pre-tertiary to tertiary institutions, there has been a lack of significant infrastructure improvements. “We inherit largely what we had at the pre-tertiary level, with only minimal additions to accommodate the growing number of students,” he lamented.
The Principal’s call was clear: the government must enhance its commitment to educational infrastructure by allocating funds from the GETFund for the construction of more residential and academic facilities. This support is crucial for attracting higher enrollment and ultimately shaping skilled educators who will contribute positively to society.
As Professor Atintono welcomed the fresh students, he emphasized the importance of utilizing available resources to foster personal and academic growth. He urged them to hold on to essential values like integrity, respect, and excellence throughout their educational journey. “Envision the type of teacher and individual you aspire to become by the end of your four-year journey here,” he encouraged.
It’s vital that policymakers recognize the unique challenges posed by inadequate infrastructure and address them to secure a brighter future for Ghana’s educational framework. Investing in these institutions not only enhances student experiences but also underpins the nation’s development in the educational sector.
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