The Government has handed-over a newly refurbished Science Laboratory at the cost of GHc230,000 to the St. Augustine’s Senior High School, Bogoso, in the Western Region.

The refurbishment was funded by the Minerals Development Fund (MDF) under the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.

The facility would enable students to undertake practical lessons and ensure conducive environment for teaching and learning.

Speaking at a handing over ceremony in Bogoso on Thursday, Mrs Barbara Oteng-Gyasi, the Outgoing Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, who facilitated the renovation works, said government had prioritised education and would, therefore, build the capacity of the youth in mining communities with funds from the Minerals Development Fund.

She underlined the relevance of science, mathematics and technology education, and noted that President Nana Akufo-Addo had constituted a Presidential Advisory Council on Science and Innovation headed by Professor Edward Ayensu, to infuse science and technology concept in students.

Mrs Oteng-Gyasi, also the Member of Parliament for Prestea Huni-Valley, was of the belief that inculcating scientific knowledge in the youth would enable them to develop dynamic attitudes necessary for fast-tracking the country’s development.

Mrs Oteng-Gyasi, the Minister-designate for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, pointed out that the Government’s Free Senior High School policy and compulsory primary education would enable the youth to receive the requisite training to propel the country’s vision of industrialisation and achieve “Ghana Beyond Aid”.

Dr Norris Hammah, the acting Administrator of the Minerals Development Fund, said government was on course in utilising the Fund to supporting mining communities and assured the continued judicious use of the money.

He promised to complete all the projects started with the MDF even after the Deputy Minister leaves to take over the Tourism Ministry.

Madam Mary Vida Kwofie, the Municipal Education Director, appealed to government to refurbish the Biology and Physics Laboratories of the school as well.

She gave the assurance that the Laboratory would be maintained to ensure maximum benefit to the present and future generation of students.

Source: GNA