The Challenge: School Without Tools

According to a 2022 survey by the Ghana Education Service, only 45% of Junior High Schools had received textbooks for the country’s new curriculum. This has forced both students and teachers to rely on outdated materials—or in many cases, none at all.

Without essential school supplies like textbooks, notebooks, or even pens, students often struggle to participate meaningfully in class. For teachers, it’s difficult to deliver high-quality lessons or make learning engaging.

Our Team Reflects on Their School Days

To highlight the lasting importance of proper school resources, our team at Homeland Ghana is sharing their personal childhood memories — moments shaped by the presence (or absence) of school materials, teachers, and safe learning spaces.

Rhoda, Founder & CEO

“One of my most cherished memories from primary school was shopping for school supplies with my siblings and our dad. He would spare no expense to make sure we were well-prepared for the term.

I always had an extra pen or pencil for a friend, a fresh set of coloured pencils, and a big school bag. I was ready to learn!”

I was that kid who had an extra pen and pencil on hand for friends, a fresh set of coloured pencils and a big school bag at the start of each term. I was ready to learn!”

Mavis, Content Assistant 

“I went to three different primary schools. My social and creative arts teacher was amazing—she helped me gain confidence in sports and singing. One of my favourite memories was leading songs with my friend every Wednesday.”

 

Kirsten, Executive

“This is me in Primary school. My best friend was called Katherine, so we used to call ourselves the KitKats.“

 

Farouk, Programme Coordinator

“My most memorable primary school memory is the time my friends and I found an old abandoned local house hidden behind bushes at school. We explored it and found a dusty comic book, a rusty tin box with marbles, and a tattered map, which we thought was a treasure map. We spent days searching for the treasure and finally found a buried box with a note and chocolate coins inside. The house became our special spot where we shared stories and snacks.”

Sita, Youth Engagement Worker

“We once borrowed a book from the district library without realising we had to register. After returning it, the librarian thanked us, and we started visiting the library regularly. It was the only place we could access new books and stories.”

So what?

Every one of us at Homeland Ghana is a product of basic education—and we know firsthand how much it matters. The tools, support, and experiences we had in school shaped who we are today.

But many children in Ghana still lack those basics: textbooks, notebooks, pens, or a place to sit and learn.

How You Can Help

Whether you donate supplies, volunteer your time, or raise awareness, you can make a difference in a child’s school experience.

👉 Share your school memory in the comments.
👉 Start a conversation.
👉 Support a child’s basic education today.