By Franice Tandoh
The people of Tapa-Abotoase in the Oti Region have received a newly built school, generously donated by Star Oil Limited to the Ghana Education Service. This initiative aims to enhance teaching and learning opportunities for children in the community by providing a six-unit classroom block, an ICT laboratory, and a reliable water supply system, ensuring a conducive environment for quality education.
Additionally, Star Oil Limited donated 500 life jackets to support the safety of schoolchildren who travel across water bodies to access education, reaffirming the company’s commitment to the well-being of the community.
The commissioning ceremony, held on February 14, 2025, was graced by several dignitaries, including the Honourable Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Ms. Emelia Arthur, who officially inaugurated the facility. She was assisted by the Honourable Regional Minister of the Oti Region, Mr. John Kwadwo Gyapong, the Tapa Benkumhene, Nana Aniampomah Asiedu, who represented the Omanhene of the Tapa-Abotoase Traditional Area, and the Board Chairman of Star Oil Limited, Mr. Vincent K. Kaledzi.
Speaking at the event, Ms. Emelia Arthur commended Star Oil Limited for its outstanding corporate social responsibility, emphasizing that the project would greatly benefit the children of hardworking parents in the community. She urged other corporate bodies to emulate such gestures to support education and national development.
“So I identified with and associated with the intervention to help move education in this constituency forward but also, more importantly, it is a project for the benefit of fishers who fall within my ministry,” she stated.
On behalf of the Omanhene, Nana Aniampomah Asiedu expressed deep gratitude to Star Oil Limited for the intervention, highlighting that access to quality education remains a priority for the community. He encouraged parents and teachers to make good use of the facility to nurture future leaders.
“On behalf of the Omanhene and the people of Tapa Abotoase, I extend our deepest appreciation to Star Oil Limited for their generous support and commitment to the development of our community. Your contributions, whether in infrastructure, education, or community welfare, have made a significant impact on the lives of our people,” he said.
In honor of Star Oil Limited, Board Chairman Mr. Vincent K. Kaledzi reaffirmed the company’s dedication to supporting communities beyond its core business operations. He expressed hope that the new school would inspire young learners to strive for excellence in their studies.
“No child should ever have to risk their life in the pursuit of knowledge. That is why Star Oil Limited took it upon itself to build this school, ensuring that children in Tapa-Abotoase can learn in safety right here in their community. Today, that dream has become a reality,” he remarked.
The school’s fully equipped ICT laboratory will help bridge the digital divide, providing students with hands-on experience in technology. The water supply system will ensure a steady flow of clean water for the school, promoting hygiene and sanitation. Additionally, the donation of 500 life jackets will improve the safety of children commuting via waterways.
The ceremony concluded with a symbolic handing-over of the school keys to the Ghana Education Service, marking the official transfer of the facility for academic use. The community welcomed the development with enthusiasm, celebrating a new chapter in their educational journey.
