Tamale, Jan. 28, GNA - Mr. Lakhal Benkelai, the Algerian Ambassador in Ghana, has donated sporting and educational materials to the 1st November 1954 Junior High School in Tamale. The Algerian government built the school in 1954 as part of activities marking Algeria's independence and to further strengthen the bonds of friendship between Ghana and Algeria. Making the donation Mr. Benkelai said it was part of efforts to assist the school with its basic needs to enhance the quality of teaching and learning.

He expressed the hope that the donation would open other areas of cooperation between Ghana and Algeria and that the school symbolised the good relationship between the two countries. Madam Miama Abudu, the Headmistress of the school, said the school started with a population of 122 and the number had increased to 230. She said some of the problems facing the school included lack of science equipment, leaking roofs, absence of electricity and ineffective teaching of ICT and appealed for assistance. Mr. John Hobenu, Northern Regional Director of Education, urged teachers and students of the school to take their teaching and learning seriously and also ensure discipline in all their activities. He appealed to the elders of the community to take keen interest in what goes on in the school and also monitor the academic performance of the pupils. Mr. Mohammed Baba, the Metropolitan Coordinating Director, appealed to the Algerian Ambassador to consider establishing a city/sister relationship between Tamale and any city in Algeria to boost economic cooperation. 28 Jan 09