NEGLECTED ROAD AND UNSAFE PASSAGE: THE PLIGHT OF KNUST STUDENTS IN AYEDUASE

For years, students residing in Ayeduase, a bustling community near the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), have faced a persistent challenge: the deplorable state of the roads connecting their hostels to campus. Recently, the situation has taken a dangerous turn because a makeshift wooden plank, replacing a concrete cylinder, has become a perilous passage due to neglect and inadequate maintenance.

Wooden plank before rain

For students residing in Ayeduase, the journey to and from campus has become a daily ordeal. The once-concrete cylinder, which served as a passage for water drainage, was removed to address flooding issues, leaving behind a makeshift wooden plank. However, this temporary solution has proven woefully inadequate to withstand the pressure of constant foot traffic, resulting in frequent damage and posing a serious threat to student safety.

Students finding a way around mud at Whitehouse Hostel, KNUST

When the rains descend upon Ayeduase, chaos ensues. The inadequate drainage system leads to flooding, transforming the already treacherous paths into impassable rivers of mud. Students are left stranded, forced to navigate through ankle-deep water and endure the frustration of cleaning mud-soaked shoes and clothes.

Wooden plank after rainfall

Despite repeated pleas from students, the authorities have failed to address the dire state of the Ayeduase roads. The deteriorating conditions not only jeopardize student safety but also hinder academic pursuits, as students struggle to commute to campus amidst the hazardous conditions.

Flooded drainage

As the wooden plank continues to deteriorate, students are left questioning who bears responsibility for their plight. Is it the government, the school's Student Representative Council (SRC), or the university authorities?

Regardless of the answer, one thing remains clear: urgent action is needed to ensure the safety and well-being of KNUST students.

Please who’s responsible for this road ? The SRC,The off-campus MP or the MP for Oforikrom? I don’t really understand. A child almost fell off from the other side. If it rains koraaa di333 yawa. pic.twitter.com/QUxjS6XcUi
— Manuel_oduro (@g4_manuel12) April 12, 2024

Students are advised to be extra careful when using the road in front of White House hostel during this season of rainfall as the route easily gets flooded.

Let's adhere to this safety precaution. pic.twitter.com/He1t9SwDsB
— Ayeduase North Constituency-KNUST (@AyeduaseNorth) March 18, 2024