The Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has advocated for the promotion of renewable energy use in schools, particularly solar power, to ensure a consistent electricity supply and improve the overall learning environment.
Addressing the audience as the guest speaker at the 114th Speech and Prize-giving Day of Adisadel College in Cape Coast last Saturday, Mr. Dame emphasized that embracing solar energy could not only guarantee a reliable power supply but also prevent instances where institutions face electricity disconnection due to non-payment of bills.
Highlighting the sustainability of solar energy, Mr. Dame explained, “Solar energy is derived from a natural source that is replenished at a far higher rate than it is consumed. Together with wind, sunlight are sources of energy that are constantly being replenished. Solar energy is the most abundant of all energy resources and can even be harnessed in cloudy weather.”
Speaking on the theme, “Powering education through sustainable solar energy,” the A-G cited the United Nations Climate Change Action Policy, estimating that the share of renewable and solar energy in the global power supply system would triple by 2050.
Mr. Dame emphasized the critical role of secondary education in the growth, development, and future of the nation, praising the government’s Free Senior High School (SHS) policy as a significant game-changer.
He said, “The supply of reliable, efficient, and affordable energy is necessary for the sustenance of the Free SHS programme.”
The Attorney-General highlighted the increased energy demands associated with the adoption of Free SHS and recommended a cooperative approach for less privileged institutions. He proposed public-private partnerships to facilitate the installation of solar energy systems, acknowledging that while there might be initial costs, the long-term benefits, including job creation, would outweigh the investment.
Concluding his remarks, Mr. Dame commended the Headmaster of Adisadel SHS, Samuel Agudogo, for his dedication and paid tribute to the past and present students of the school for their contributions to education.
