The National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) has urged the Ministry of Education to develop and put into action strategies to mitigate the consequences of the flood disaster in the Lower Volta Basin on the education and welfare of school children.
In a press statement, NAGRAT emphasized that the flooding caused by the Akosombo Dam’s release of water has disrupted the lives and educational pursuits of numerous children.
Therefore, it is essential to establish a stable and safe environment for both students and their families.
“We call upon the Ministry of Education and other relevant bodies to put in place measures to mitigate the impact of this disaster on the education of affected children. NAGRAT and its members are ever ready to offer the needed support.
“NAGRAT emphasizes the need for a concerted effort from all stakeholders to respond to this disaster with the needed expertise, compassion, and urgency. Our thoughts are with the affected communities and we stand in solidarity with them during this challenging period,” parts of the statement read.
NAGRAT has appealed to the government and relevant authorities to make the well-being of those affected a top priority and to proactively implement measures to prevent such incidents from recurring.
“We will continue to monitor the situation closely and offer our assistance in any way possible to ensure a swift and effective response to this crisis,” the Association added.
The Volta River Authority initiated the spillage of excess water on September 15, mainly due to the rising water levels in the Akosombo and Kpong hydro dams. In the weeks following the commencement of the spillage, numerous residents living along the Lower Volta Basin have experienced the loss of their homes and farmlands due to flooding caused by this release of water. Presently, nine districts are grappling with the impact of this overwhelming situation, resulting in a severe humanitarian crisis.
This heartbreaking situation particularly affects the South, Central, and North Tongu districts within the Volta Region, where the devastation is extensive. Vibrant communities like Battor, Tefle, Mepe, Sogakope, Adidome, and Anlo now find themselves submerged, with their very existence nearly consumed by the relentless waters.
Numerous residents have taken the initiative to evacuate themselves from the affected areas, and the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) and other relevant agencies have actively participated in rescue operations. Furthermore, various institutions and individuals have generously provided relief supplies to the affected residents.
Meanwhile, NAGRAT has expressed its appreciation to the government for establishing an Inter-Ministerial Committee. This committee is tasked with investigating the underlying causes of this disaster and formulating preventative measures to minimize the potential for similar incidents in the future.
“Furthermore, NAGRAT encourages the government and all stakeholders to engage in transparent communication with the affected communities and to provide them with timely and accurate information regarding the ongoing response and recovery efforts. In times of crisis, clear and open lines of communication are vital to fostering trust and cooperation among all parties involved.”