Somé Paramount Chief Makes Strong Case for Category B status for Somé SHS, Cites Infrastructure, Performance, and Strategic Importance
By Nelson Ayivor
The Paramount Chief and President of the Somé Traditional Council, Torgbiga Adamah III, has on Thursday, April 23, paid a courtesy call on the Minister for Education, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, to advocate for the elevation of Somé Senior High School to Category B status.
The high-level meeting, held at the Ministry of Education, focused on the urgent need to upgrade the school to reflect its growing academic performance, expanding student population, and its critical role in providing secondary education within Somé and the larger Ketu South Municipality.
Torgbiga Adamah III underscored the school’s steady progress in recent years, noting that Somé SHS has consistently improved in both academic output and discipline. He argued that despite these gains, the school continues to operate under constraints that limit its full potential.
“Our school has demonstrated capacity and resilience over the years. Upgrading Somé SHS to Category B will not only enhance its appeal but also attract the necessary resources and talent to sustain excellence,” he stated.
The traditional ruler further highlighted infrastructural deficits, including inadequate dormitory space, limited science laboratories, and pressure on existing teaching staff, stressing that Category B status would unlock greater government investment and stakeholder support.
Receiving the delegation, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu acknowledged the concerns raised and commended the traditional authority for its proactive role in advancing education in the region. He assured that the Ministry would give due consideration to the request, emphasizing the government’s commitment to equitable educational development across the country.
“We recognize the importance of strengthening institutions that show promise. The Ministry will assess the infrastructure, staffing, and academic indicators of Somé SHS in line with the requirements for Category B classification,” the Minister noted.
Education analysts indicate that the reclassification of senior high schools in Ghana is typically based on a combination of factors, including infrastructure, academic performance, and capacity to absorb students under the Free SHS policy.
Residents and alumni of Somé SHS have welcomed the move, expressing optimism that the upgrade would improve teaching and learning outcomes while enhancing the school’s national standing.
The visit by Torgbiga Adamah III and his Elders is seen as part of a broader push by traditional leaders to partner government in addressing developmental challenges, particularly in the education sector.
About Somé Senior High
Somé Senior High School, established in 1966 and located in Agbozume, Volta region is a Mixed Category C public school operating on a Double Track system.
The school’s rich history and academic excellence have made it a reputable institution in the region. Somé Senior High School offers a variety of programmes to cater to the diverse needs of its students.
The school’s strong sense of community and commitment to academic achievement have earned it a special place in the hearts of its students and alumni.
Motto: Empowering Minds
Mission: To provide quality education that prepares students for a rapidly changing world.
Vision: To be a leading institution in the provision of quality education that empowers students to become responsible citizens.
Unique Highlights
Somé Senior High School has a strong focus on academic excellence, with a variety of programmes to cater to different interests and abilities.
The school’s Double Track system allows for a more efficient use of resources and a better student-to-teacher ratio. It has a strong sense of community, with a focus on building relationships between students, teachers, and parents.
Programmes Offered
Business, General Arts, General Science, Home Economics, and Visual Arts.
If approved, the upgrade of Somé Senior High School to Category B status is expected to significantly boost access to quality secondary education in the Volta Region and beyond.
