"Rösler's Report on Schools in Akem"

Two pupils had been dismissed from the Akim Middle School before Christmas 1885, and when the pupils returned for the next term they were in any frame of mind. However, after the presbyters of several of the most important congregations had visited Begoro and been told the reason for the dismissals they accepted them, and after a long conference with the pupils, the latter accepted that they should begin work (Except for one who left). Another came 14 days late, claimed he had been ill, but enquiry led to the point that he had been trading on the Coast. He too was expelled - Rösler remarks that all the boys would like to trade - they feel it is an easy way to make a living. Since the beginning of March, when Rösler began to= take a hand with the teaching, things have gone smoothly. Concerning the religious character of the boys, he considers it is a seed time, few of them show real signs of a spiritual life. Visiting the rest of the schools in Akim in June-July he wondered about the prospects of bringing in a system of fines for people who did not complete the course at the Kibi school. This would not be easy, since the bulk of the pupils have heathen parents. The Kukurantumi school has lost far fewer pupils than is usual - a measure of the unfortunateness of losing Oforidee (Rösler repeats Oforidee's history, naming the Cape Coast School as the Wesleyan High School. He was in 1886 the father of 3 children). Summing up the difficulties involved in running school: in Akim Rösler argues that the worth of the schools is not understood. In fact it is widely believed that if you go to school you become a catechist or teacher - and vice versa.

26.07.1886

26.07.1886

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