CONTRIBUTION OF ACTION AID INTERNATIONAL GHANA IN THE PROVISION OF QUALITY EDUCATION IN THE UPPER EAST REGION

ABSTRACT

The study investigated the contribution of Action Aid International

Ghana (AAIG) in the provision of quality basic education in the Upper East

Region. The study seeks to identify the extent to which AAIG has contributed

to infrastructural development, teachingllearning materials (including

textbooks), staffing, in-service training and Girl-Child Education. The study

also seeks to identify how Action Aid is promoting the REV and Shepherd

school schemes as alternative models in education. A thematic approach was

adopted for the research.

The descriptive survey method was adopted with a sample size of 304.

The sample was purposively selected. The questionnaire was the main

instrument used to collect data from key respondents. The data was analysed

using frequencies and simple percentage distributions.

The major findings are that AAIG has to a large extent contributed to

provide classrooms built with suitable materials, furniture and office

accommodation for headteachers. AAIG has also contributed to build the

capacities of headteachers, teachers, PTAs and SMCs through in-service

training. It has also promoted girl-child education through the education of

parents'on the benefits of girl-child education and educational tours for girls in

basic schools.

Another major finding is that AAIG has promoted alternative models

in education through its Rural Education Volunteer and Shepherd School

Schemes. The study recommends to Action Aid to collaborate with other

development partners and GES to make in-service training regular. It should

also consider revising the allowances of REV teachers and provide more

teachers and toilet facilities for the Shepherd schools.