While basic schools in the Accra Metropolis have abandoned the shift system, Holy Trinity Cathedral Senior High School has been squeezed into adopting the practice for lack of space. The shift system, thanks to the Mayor of the Accra Metro Assembly, have been abolished because, according to the Mayor, Alfred Oko Vanderpuije it breeds too much truancy. At the Holy Trinity Cathedral Senior High School (HOTCAS) in Accra however, the shift system is very much in vogue. The first group, christened ‘484’ comprises forms three and four students who take up lessons between 7:30am to 12:30pm with the second group ‘699’ comprising forms one and two students whose lectures start from 12:30pm to 4pm. School authorities say the system is as a result of lack of infrastructure and space while the Government is busy putting up a three storey classroom to house all students. Headmaster of the School, William Dompreh Adjeye has told Asempa News some classrooms had to be demolished to make space for the construction of the three storey building. “The school lacks classrooms and so we pulled down the form two classrooms to pave way for construction of a new storey building”. Mr. Dompreh Adjeye explained that the contractor had assured them of completing the work by March ending. The school authorities are however giving themselves up to May when schools re-open. Mr. Dompreh Adjeye revealed that the shift system is affecting studies and expressed hope that by the May end when the next academic year begins, the shift system would be over. He said the present situation has reduced contact periods between teachers and students, which in turn has led to some students taking advantage to roam in town. “Truancy has increased but we punish students by suspending them if they are caught. We keep on checking with the registers”. Mr. Dompreh Adjeye contended that the shift system has serious repercussions on academic work but hopes the three storey building will be completed before the next academic year. The Headmaster revealed that some of the students also indulge in cat-and-mouse games with their parents and guardians as they play truant. Mr. Dompreh added that, apart from those challenges, there is pressure on the teachers since those who were to come to work in the morning are also running a shift system. He thanked the teachers for their cooperation during this challenging period and urged them to continue with their good work. Meanwhile the Deputy Minister of Education, Dr. Joseph Annan has said the Ministry was unaware of the situation at the school. Story: Kwaku Antwi-Otoo/Asempa FM/Ghana