Accra, Ghana – Keta Senior High Technical School (KETASCO) is raising its voice against the Ghana Education Service’s (GES) decision to classify it as a Category B institution. Despite its impressive academic achievements and strong performance in the National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ), KETASCO finds itself grappling with the implications of this reclassification.

A Legacy of Excellence

KETASCO has long been a beacon of academic excellence in the Volta Region. The school has consistently produced top-performing students and has made significant strides in various academic competitions. Dr. Benjamin Mawunya Boafor, a coach and past contestant for KETASCO’s NSMQ team, passionately argues that the school deserves to be reinstated as a Category A institution. “We have done enough to regain our place among the top pre-tertiary institutions in the country,” he asserts.

Impact on Student Intake

The reclassification from Category A to Category B has had a noticeable impact on KETASCO’s appeal to prospective students. Many bright students, who would have otherwise chosen KETASCO, now opt for Category A schools based on their status. Dr. Boafor highlights that this shift has affected the school’s intake of high-achieving students, which in turn impacts its overall performance and reputation.

Achievements Amidst Challenges

Despite limited resources, KETASCO has excelled in the NSMQ, reaching the finals twice in the last four years. This achievement is a testament to the school’s commitment to academic excellence. Dr. Boafor points out that aside from Presbyterian Boys Senior High School (PRESEC), Legon, and Prempeh College, KETASCO is the only school to have reached the NSMQ finals in recent years. This remarkable feat underscores the school’s potential and the dedication of its students and staff.

The Quest for Reclassification

The fight to regain Category A status is not just about prestige; it’s about ensuring that KETASCO receives the recognition and resources it deserves. Dr. Boafor emphasizes that the reclassification has broader implications for the Volta Region, which now has only three Category A schools after KETASCO’s downgrade in the 2017-2018 academic year. The school’s leadership is determined to advocate for a re-evaluation of its status, highlighting its consistent performance and contributions to education in Ghana.

Community and Alumni Support

The KETASCO community, including alumni, current students, and parents, has rallied behind the cause. Alumni, many of whom have gone on to achieve significant success in various fields, have voiced their support for the school’s reclassification. They argue that KETASCO’s current classification does not reflect its true capabilities and achievements. Parents and students have also joined the call, emphasizing the need for fair recognition of the school’s efforts.

A Call to Action

KETASCO’s journey is a call to action for stakeholders in the education sector to recognize and support schools that demonstrate excellence, regardless of their classification. The school’s achievements in the NSMQ and its commitment to nurturing bright minds deserve acknowledgment and support. As KETASCO continues to push for reclassification, it serves as a reminder that academic excellence should be the primary criterion for categorizing educational institutions.

Looking Ahead

As the debate over KETASCO’s classification continues, the school remains focused on maintaining its high standards of academic performance. Teachers and students are determined to prove that KETASCO deserves to be recognized among the top institutions in the country. The school administration is also exploring ways to enhance its programs and facilities, ensuring that KETASCO continues to provide quality education to its students.

KETASCO’s battle to reclaim its Category A status is a testament to its resilience and dedication to academic excellence. The school’s impressive achievements, despite limited resources, highlight the need for a re-evaluation of its classification. As KETASCO continues to advocate for its rightful place among Ghana’s top pre-tertiary institutions, it stands as a symbol of the potential and promise of education in the Volta Region.