Students of the Dodi-Papase Senior High Technical School (DOPASS) in the Kadjebi District of the Oti Region continue to eat under an open shed due to the lack of a suitable dining hall.

A visit by the Ghana News Agency to the school revealed that the current dining area is a temporary structure with a metal roof, offering limited protection against harsh weather.

Some students who spoke to the GNA expressed dissatisfaction with the situation, describing it as uncomfortable and inconvenient, especially during the rainy season and the wind.

Master Shadrach Quartey, a first-year student, said eating in the open does not provide a conducive atmosphere.

“We are not happy eating under this shed. When it is about to rain, we have to run for shelter to avoid getting wet,” he said, appealing to philanthropists and benevolent organisations to support the school with a modern dining hall.

Miss Usman Zeinah, a second-year student, shared similar sentiments, noting that the situation sometimes disrupts their meals.

“We plead with individuals and organisations to come to our aid so we can have a decent place to eat,” she added.

The Headmaster of DOPASS, Mr John Mensah Da-Silveira, confirmed that the school's management was aware of the challenge.

He told the GNA that a Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund)- funded project, initiated in 2015 to construct a dining hall, had stalled.

According to him, efforts are underway to address the situation as the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) has commenced a new dining hall project.

He said: “The PTA took the initiative to start a new project to provide a permanent and befitting dining facility for the students,” renewing the appeal for external support to expedite its completion.

Mr Gideon Nkansah, the PTA Vice-Chairman, explained that the Association began the project three years ago after recognising the urgent need for improved infrastructure.

He described the existing structure as “just a shed” and inadequate for the growing student population.

“When it is about to rain, the students have to leave their food and run for cover because the rain beats them. It is not the best,” he said.

Mr Nkansah expressed hope that, with additional financial support, the project could be completed ahead of the 2028 timeline, providing students with a safe and comfortable dining environment.

He appealed to corporate bodies, non-governmental organisations and public-spirited individuals to partner with the school to complete the facility and improve teaching and learning conditions at DOPASS.