The Member of Parliament (MP) for Akyem Oda Constituency in the Eastern Region, Mr Alexander Akwasi Acquah, has called on parents, community leaders, and stakeholders to take urgent steps to support children’s education and steer them away from illegal mining activities, popularly known as galamsey.

Speaking at an educational support event in his constituency, the MP emphasised that education, not illegal mining, should be seen as the true wealth of Ghana’s future.

“Education must be our gold mines, not galamsey sites,” he declared, urging parents and opinion leaders to invest in developing young minds instead of allowing children to risk their lives in unsafe mining environments.

As part of his continuous commitment to promoting education and improving student welfare, Mr. Acquah donated mattresses, books, school bags, and provisions to Senior High School students in the constituency.

The initiative aims to motivate students to stay in school and excel academically.

His remarks come at a time of growing concern over the impact of illegal mining on education and the environment, with reports of school-age children abandoning classrooms to work in hazardous mining conditions.

In recognition of his efforts, the Awosohene of the Akyem Kotoku Traditional Area, Nana Kwasi Sasu IV, commended the MP for his dedication to improving education in the area.

The traditional leader also announced plans to sponsor 200 students next year as part of a broader community effort to enhance educational opportunities in Akyem Oda.

Mr. Acquah reiterated his commitment to working with traditional authorities and parents to ensure every child in the constituency has access to quality education and a brighter future.