The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Garu District, John Abugba Abaare, has described illegal small-scale mining, popularly known as galamsey, as a major threat to Ghana’s educational system, particularly in the Garu enclave.
Speaking in an interview during the ongoing Basic Education Certificate Examination in Garu, the DCE expressed concern over the increasing number of school dropouts linked to illegal mining activities.
According to him, a total of 1,456 candidates are sitting for this year’s BECE in the Garu District. Out of the number, 819 are females while 637 are males.
Mr. Abaare noted that reports from school authorities and parents indicate that some students, especially boys, have abandoned their education to engage in mining activities outside the district.
He cautioned students against leaving school for galamsey, stressing that the activity is not only illegal but also dangerous and temporary.
He, therefore, urged candidates and young people in the district to remain focused on their education and work hard toward securing a better future.
Story by Ibrahim Abode || U/ER
