Former Member of Parliament for Okere Constituency and former Minister for Local Government and Rural Development, Dan Botwe, has underscored the need for a collective effort in advancing inclusive education in Ghana.
He stressed that the nation’s push for inclusive education should be a shared responsibility, urging the privileged in society to contribute, in their own small ways, to support the underprivileged in climbing the academic ladder.
Speaking at a durbar organized by the chiefs and people of Okere at Adukrom to express his gratitude for the opportunity to serve as their Member of Parliament for 16 years, Mr. Botwe recounted the numerous educational interventions he championed for thousands of constituents. He also emphasized the need to sustain such support for future generations.
As part of his continued commitment to the development of Okere, Mr. Botwe donated GH₵350,000 to the Okere Community Educational Fund. The amount was sourced from the Master Darko Foundation, a foundation established in memory of his late father.
Beneficiary towns include Abiriw, Dawu, Awukugua, Adukrom, Apiredi, Aseseeso, and Abonse, with each community receiving GH₵50,000 to support their respective educational funds. The fund is managed by a committee comprising members of the clergy, traditional leaders (Nananom), and community opinion leaders.
Mr. Botwe explained that the funds would be disbursed based on the needs of applicants.
“I say all the time that I am the luckiest MP in the Fourth Republic. I have enjoyed full cooperation from the chiefs, clergy, opinion leaders, and even my political opponents. I have retired from Parliament, but my commitment to the development of Okere remains unflinching. This donation to the community educational fund is part of my thank-you to Okere,” he said.
He also appealed to the chiefs and residents of Okere to extend the same support they gave him to the newly elected Member of Parliament, Hon. Daniel Kenneth Nana Addo.
“Now you have two Members of Parliament. While your elected MP works for you in Parliament, I will also be home following up on development projects in the constituency,” Mr. Botwe added.
For his part, the Nifahene of Akuapem and Adukromhene, Osuodumgya Otutu Ababio, urged the youth to stay away from drug abuse and focus on their education.
He emphasized that the investments being made in education across Okere would only yield meaningful results if the youth commit themselves to their studies. He further called on all stakeholders to prioritize the development of Okere, regardless of political affiliation.
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