The National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) has raised concern about increasing absenteeism in schools located in mining communities, attributing the issue to illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey.
The President of NAGRAT reported that students in areas heavily affected by galamsey are frequently absent from school, which negatively impacts both teaching and learning.
He noted that many students are lured by the immediate financial gains offered by illegal miners which they find more enticing than their academic pursuits.
Mr. Carbonu, also highlighted the challenges in combating the galamsey problem, pointing out that political figures and others with resources are often the beneficiaries of illegal mining. These individuals he said provide machinery and employment for the youth, which exacerbates the environmental damage and makes it difficult to address the issue effectively.
NAGRAT is calling on the government to take stringent measures against illegal mining. These include a nationwide ban on small-scale mining, halting the issuance of licenses for gold prospecting in water bodies and forest reserves, and withdrawing all machinery from affected areas.
Additionally, NAGRAT advocates for identifying and punishing those involved in illegal mining activities and stopping the issuance of mining licenses across the country.
Mr. Carbonu emphasized the urgent need for decisive action to curb the crisis, urging the government to address the situation immediately and enforce the law to protect the environment and safeguard students’ education.