The advocacy group, University Teachers for Free SHS Ghana, has taken its campaign to the Duakor electoral area, a migrant fishing community near the Cape Coast University populated mainly by Ewes, in the Cape Coast North constituency. The group’s visit on Saturday, November 23, 2024, coincided with a football tournament between local teams, Duakor Super Stars and Oguaa 11, providing a vibrant platform to engage the community ahead of the December general elections.
During the event, the group appealed to the residents to support the New Patriotic Party (NPP) by voting for its presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and the NPP parliamentary candidate for Cape Coast North, Ekow Ewusi.
The teacher group interacting with a GFA Catch Them Young Referee Official
Free SHS Success Story
Addressing the gathering, representatives of the University Teachers for Free SHS Ghana emphasized the transformative impact of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy under the NPP government. They lauded the initiative for breaking financial barriers to secondary education, enabling many children in Ghana to access quality education.
The teachers also underscored the importance of sustaining and expanding the program, which they described as a critical investment in the future of the country’s youth.
“We are here to remind you that Free SHS has changed lives. Many of your children, siblings, and friends have been able to access education without the burden of school fees. This program is too important to lose, and its continuity depends on voting for leaders who believe in it—Dr. Bawumia and Ekow Ewusi,” the teacher group said.
Talent Development Through Sports
The group also acknowledged the pivotal role of sports in community development and youth empowerment. They assured the audience that the NPP government is committed to creating opportunities for young football talents in Duakor and surrounding areas.
“We recognize the potential of sports in transforming lives. A vote for the NPP is a vote for policies and initiatives that will help unearth and nurture your football talents. This will not only benefit the individual players but will also boost the image of our communities,” the lecturers added.
Appeal to the Community
The lecturers urged residents to view their votes as a tool to secure a brighter future for their children and community. They emphasized that Dr. Bawumia’s leadership and Ekow Ewusi’s representation in Parliament would ensure the sustained progress of transformative programs like Free SHS and the development of community sports infrastructure.
The football tournament provided a lively and engaging atmosphere for the interaction, with many community members showing interest in the group’s message. Players and spectators alike were encouraged to actively participate in the democratic process by making informed choices at the polls.
Broader Campaign Efforts
This engagement forms part of a broader campaign by University Teachers for Free SHS Ghana to rally support for the NPP across various constituencies. The group, made up of university lecturers from different institutions, has been vocal in advocating for the continuation of policies they believe are key to Ghana’s development.