Since the mid 1970's, Ghana's education system, once one of the most highly developed in West Africa, has been on the decline.

Now almost half of the population has little or no access to education and in the more rural areas, the literacy rate among adults is only 6.9%. Part of the decline can be attributed to the fact that so few families were able to afford the school fees imposed, along with extra charges levied by district authorities.

The Government of Ghana has started to address these problems and is working towards giving every child some form of education.

Of those children lucky enough to receive a formal education, only 57% will benefit from education up to the senior secondary school level.

The Friends of Ashanti Ghana are pleased to be able to sponsor two children from the rural villages of Brodekwano and Konkoma to attend The Cambridge International Boarding School in Kumasi. Diana Antwi and Dominic Appiah have both settled in well and are making excellent progress.

In the most recent Student Report for Diana she is described by the Headmaster as being 'Respectful and Obedient' and 'Very Eager and Attentive', and it was noted that Diana 'easily mixes with others'. Her performance has improved steadily over the school term 2nd May to 27th July 2007, gaining some of her highest marks in Science and Social Studies. (74% and 72%)

Dominic has produced some excellent results over the same period and is ranked 11th in his class of 40 pupils. His highest achievements have been in General Science (82%) English Language (77%) and Religious and Moral Education (75%). Dominic is described as 'very thoughtful and serious' as well as 'very studious'.

The fee payable per term for both pupils is approximately GhC 415 (or the equivalent at present rates of approximately £207). In addition, the children receive GhC 150 between them to cover expenses such as transportation for the mid-term break, pocket money, and other provisions.

All their needs are catered for by The Friends of Ashanti from school fees to uniforms, books, and even the bedding required for their boarding. With increased funding it would be possible to give many more gifted pupils the opportunity to gain a better education and we shall continue to work towards making this happen for other Dianas and Dominics.