Access to functional library facilities remains a challenge in many public senior high schools across Ghana, where limited infrastructure and inadequate learning resources continue to hinder effective research and independent study.

At Kwabenya Community Senior High School, management says that although academic standards have been maintained over the years, the poor condition of the library and lack of proper shelving made it difficult to properly organise books and maximise available space.

In response, Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, Elikplim Akurugu, renovated the school’s library by installing new bookshelves to improve access to learning materials and support teaching and learning.

Commissioning the facility, the MP emphasised the importance of libraries in academic development.
“A library is more than a building. It is a place where students gain academic experience and learn in a conducive environment,” she said.

She encouraged students to take advantage of the upgraded facility. “I pray that the students here will take their studies seriously because now we have a library and shelves. They can learn in a better environment,” she added.

The MP also assured the school community of continued support. “Anytime Kwabenya SHS calls on me, I will be ready to support,” she pledged.

The Headmistress of the school, Rahinatu Yakubu Salifu, explained that the shelving challenge became more pronounced as the school expanded.

“Initially, the shelves and desks were adequate when the school started. But as the school grew and more books were received, storage became a challenge,” she said.

She disclosed that the intervention followed a direct request to the MP. “We had many books in storage because there was no proper place to display them. With the new shelves, students can now easily access books across different categories,” she explained.

The Headmistress added that the improved space has enhanced the overall learning environment.

“Students feel more comfortable coming to the library because the space has been freed up. Books that were previously on the floor have been cleared, creating a better study atmosphere,” she noted.

While expressing appreciation for the intervention, she acknowledged that the school continues to face other infrastructure and resource needs.

Some students who spoke to JoyNews welcomed the renovation, saying the improved space would encourage them to spend more time studying and conducting research.

The renovation is expected to improve access to learning materials and strengthen academic performance as part of broader efforts to enhance education infrastructure in the Dome-Kwabenya constituency.