The Chief of Sokode-Juaso in the Abuakwa North Municipality of the Eastern Region, Dr Barimah Kwabena Awuah Parker I, has called for stronger stakeholder support for Ofori Panin Senior High School (OPASS) as the school’s population continues to rise.
Delivering his address as Guest of Honour at the school’s 65th Speech and Prize-Giving Day on Saturday, November 15, 2025, the chief—an old student of OPASS—emphasised the need for parents, teachers, alumni and government to work together to address the school’s growing infrastructure challenges.
He stressed the importance of discipline and character formation, describing them as essential for building responsible citizens and future leaders. Touching on the ongoing national debate on student hairstyles, Dr Awuah Parker noted that the issue is fundamentally about respect for school rules rather than personal appearance.
As part of his commitment to the school’s development, he donated GHC 50,000 to support its fundraising efforts.
The Member of Parliament for the area, Dr Kingsley Agyemang, also addressed the gathering, reiterating that discipline and strong values are crucial to producing responsible leaders for the future. He highlighted major investments made by the previous NPP government in OPASS, noting that several infrastructure projects were initiated to expand facilities and enhance academic work.
He urged the current NDC government to continue and complete abandoned projects and support new developments to accommodate the school’s fast-growing population. The MP also donated GHC 10,000 to support the school’s development agenda and pledged to continue advocating for OPASS in Parliament.
Speaking on the sidelines of the ceremony, the Headmaster of OPASS, Mr Ernest Antwi Gyimah, expressed concern about growing congestion due to inadequate facilities. He revealed shortages of bunk beds and desks, coupled with abandoned dormitory blocks and staff bungalows, which have intensified pressure on accommodation and classrooms as enrolment increases.
To improve safety and monitoring, Mr Gyimah announced the installation of CCTV cameras as part of Phase 1 of a campus-wide security enhancement project aimed at strengthening surveillance and ensuring a safer learning environment.
He commended the 1999 year group for their consistent support in addressing urgent needs, noting that although several appeals have been made to the appropriate authorities, the year group has continuously stepped in to assist the school during critical times.
The event was chaired by Opening Bishop Asante Marfo Ahenkorah, a Chartered Accountant and Insurance Broker, and attended by several dignitaries. Among them were Nana Brempomah Amoafoa II, Akyem Ati Queen Mother; Nana Akosua Nyarkoa Anim, Krontihemaa of Sokode-Juaso; Mrs Grace Adza-Wude, Municipal Education Director; Rev Yaw Korananteng, OPOSSA President; a representative of the Eastern Regional Minister; the Abuakwa North Municipal Chief Executive; Sup Idrisu, Tafo District Police Commander, and his men, the press, parents and students.