The support from the chief was done with the help of other leaders, including the MP
In an inspiring act of benevolence and visionary leadership, the Nyimfahen of Ekumfi Arkra, Nana Yaw Amandzie (I), known in private life as Gabriel Nadab Johnson, has once again demonstrated his unwavering commitment to educational empowerment and youth development.
On Wednesday, June 11, 2025, Nana Amandzie I made a significant donation of learning materials and financial support to candidates sitting for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) within the Ekumfi District.
The heartwarming ceremony, which took place at Akyen Senior High School, was attended by various dignitaries, stakeholders in education, and community members.
A total of 1,539 candidates from across the district are participating in this year’s BECE, and each one received learning kits comprising pens, pencils, mathematical sets, as well as monetary support to ease the financial burden on parents and guardians.
This philanthropic initiative was undertaken with the collaborative support of the Member of Parliament for Ekumfi, Othniel Ekow Kwainoe, and the District Chief Executive (DCE), Ismael Nana Asamoah, both of whom lauded Nana Yaw Amandzie (I) for his consistent dedication to the upliftment of education in the district.
In his address, Nana Yaw Amandzie (I) expressed immense pride in the academic strides made by students in Ekumfi over recent years.
“I’m proud of the academic progress our students are making. Their success reflects the future of Ekumfi,” he said.
He noted that performances in the BECE and WAEC examinations have been commendable, reflecting the resilience and potential of the district’s youth. Emphasizing the importance of education, he stated: “Education remains the strongest tool for breaking the cycle of poverty.”
The traditional leader also made a passionate appeal to government agencies and private entities to prioritize the establishment of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) laboratories in basic schools within the district.
“We must invest in ICT labs to prepare our children for the digital world,” he urged.
According to him, the digital age demands that students acquire not only theoretical knowledge but also practical digital literacy to remain competitive in the 21st-century job market.
Nana Amandzie I further emphasised that his donation was not merely an act of charity, but a long-term investment in the district’s human capital.
“This support is not charity, it’s a commitment to the next generation of leaders,” he added.
The District Chief Executive, Ismael Nana Asamoah, used the occasion to commend the Ekumfi Education Directorate for their professionalism, diligence, and effective supervision throughout the examination period.
He acknowledged persistent logistical challenges, particularly the delayed delivery of examination papers, and gave assurances that appropriate measures would be implemented to address these bottlenecks in subsequent years.
Also speaking at the event was Westen Baffoe, the BECE Supervisor at Akyen Senior High School, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the chief.
He indicated that Nana Amandzie I’s motivational speech played a crucial role in calming the nerves of many anxious candidates, setting a positive tone for the exams.
Baffoe was also pleased to report a remarkably smooth examination process this year, contrasting it with previous years that were marred by disturbances from idle youth in the community.
The event concluded on a high note, with parents, teachers, and opinion leaders commending the chief for his exemplary leadership.
Many described the gesture as not merely an act of charity but a strategic investment in human capital development.
Indeed, Nana Amandzie (I) continues to distinguish himself as a traditional ruler whose leadership transcends ceremonial duties, embodying a progressive vision grounded in community development, education, and social equity.
“Let’s create a learning environment that empowers our youth to rise beyond limitations,” Nana Amandzie I concluded.
