By Prince Ahenkorah
A group of unidentified individuals, has destroyed a community-led school project in Bakpa Tosukope in the Volta Region of Ghana, throwing the future of education in the area into uncertainty.
The community, having recognized that their existing basic school structure, built with mud, had deteriorated over time, decided to take matters into their own hands by constructing a modern school facility for their children.
On January 1, 2025, during a community festival, funds were raised toward the construction of the school. Key stakeholders, including the Assembly Member, Member of Parliament, Dela Radio, and Mass TV, were invited to witness the initiative.
Using their own resources and building materials, members of the community began work on the foundation of the school.
However, on Sunday, July 27, 2025, the project suffered a major setback when the foundation was destroyed by unknown individuals.
According to reports from a nearby village, some individuals were seen carrying weapons such as guns, cutlasses, and knives. They were reported to the police and subsequently arrested. The suspects later confirmed that they had been sent by certain people to destroy the project.
Officials from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) visited the site to assess the damage caused. Although Dela Radio reported on the incident, the community says that, to date, the CID has not provided any update, judgment, or clarification on the case.
Speaking to one of the elders, Adzapa Samuel, he expressed deep concern over the situation. “We were having a kindergarten for our children which was built with mud and bricks, for time being so long it has collapsed. Now the community members have decided to build school for their children without the help of government because we do not know the time government will come to our aid, we are putting in efforts for our children to reduce distant walking to school due to reckless motor riding. Now some people are sending us back. We are demanding accountability if not we will take the law to our own hands”.
The destruction has discouraged many community members from continuing to invest their resources in the project. What began as a hopeful development effort has now stalled, leaving residents frustrated and disheartened.
According to residents, their intention was to demonstrate commitment so that the government would eventually step in to support the project. Instead, their efforts have been undermined.
The community members are now demanding answers, particularly regarding the delay in action by the CID. They are calling on authorities to act swiftly in the interest of the children whose education has been disrupted.
Another community leader also voiced his frustration. “We don’t want to put the law to our own hands that is why we are waiting patiently but time almost a year now, we can’t wait anymore”.
The destruction of the school project has become the most pressing issue in Bakpa Tosukope, with residents lamenting wasted efforts and lost resources.
The community is now calling on higher authorities to intervene, ensure accountability, and compel those responsible to replace what has been destroyed.