The Tugu Yapalisi community in the Tamale Metropolis has seen a significant improvement in its educational infrastructure following the commissioning of a new three-classroom block, thanks to the efforts of Peace Corps Ghana.
The facility was officially handed over to the community in a brief but impactful ceremony. The project, aimed at improving teaching and learning in the area, was spearheaded by Peace Corps volunteer Mrs. Pumaya Victoria, who has been working in the community.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Pumaya expressed appreciation for the hospitality and support she has received from the residents since her arrival.
She encouraged the community to maintain the facility properly and to prioritize the welfare and education of their children, whom she described as the future leaders of the area.
She also disclosed plans for her next project in the community—a corn mill initiative. She explained that this would be a collaborative effort, with the community expected to contribute 25 percent of the funding, while she covers the remaining 75 percent. She appealed to residents to support this upcoming project just as they did with the classroom block.
The chief of Tugu Yapalisi, Naa Abdul Amin Ibrahim, praised Mrs. Pumaya for her commitment and dedication. He highlighted her instrumental role in ensuring the completion of the school block and her willingness to assist further in the construction of a rice mill building, which will complement a mill already provided by the Member of Parliament.
He called on residents to continue supporting her efforts and to participate actively in communal labor to aid development.
Representing the Tamale Metro Education Directorate, the Public Relations Officer, Mr. Mohammed Alhassan, stressed the importance of shared responsibility in improving education. He noted that education is a long-term investment that requires the involvement of all stakeholders and not just the government.
Mr. Alhassan lauded the efforts of Mrs. Pumaya and the Peace Corps for their contribution and urged the community to adopt proper maintenance practices to ensure the longevity and usefulness of the new facility.
Tugu-Lana, Naa Mahama Andani, also expressed deep gratitude to Mrs. Pumaya, noting that despite the many challenges the community faces, she chose to stay and bring development through the construction of a school building. He prayed for her success and well-being and expressed hope that the community would always remember her kindness.
Several residents also shared heartfelt words of appreciation for her contributions and the positive impact she has made on their lives and the future of their children.
