Extreme heat is making it very difficult for students in Ghana to learn. Temperatures inside many classrooms are rising to uncomfortable levels. This is causing pupils to struggle with concentration and understand their lessons.
At Alajo 1 Basic School in Accra, students are seen fanning themselves with exercise books. Even with overhead fans, the air often feels hot. Researchers from the University of Ghana are now measuring the heat and humidity. They found classroom temperatures can reach 30 to 31 degrees Celsius. This high temperature, combined with humidity, makes learning extremely hard.
This problem is part of a bigger issue in Ghana's cities. Experts call it the 'urban heat island effect'. This happens when buildings, roads, and roofs absorb and keep heat. This makes city areas hotter than the surrounding countryside. Poor ventilation in schools makes this problem worse. Many classrooms have small openings, not enough to let air flow freely.
Prof Ebenezer Amankwaa, a climate researcher at the University of Ghana, explained the issue. He said rising temperatures directly affect how children learn and perform. Betty Avanu Davidson, a research assistant, is collecting scientific data. This data helps show exactly what conditions students face. She said pupils can say they feel hot, but scientific proof is also important.
Heartwill Awudi, a teacher at Alajo 1 Basic School, sees the impact daily. She said students miss important parts of lessons when it is too hot. For both teachers and students, the heat can be unbearable. She also noted that many classrooms lack ceiling fans. The metal roofing also traps heat inside.
The problem extends beyond discomfort. Prolonged exposure to high heat can also cause health problems for children. These can include headaches and heat rashes. The school infrastructure, with its design and materials, is contributing to the stifling environment. Experts suggest better ventilation and cooling systems are needed to improve learning conditions. The fixed seating arrangements also prevent students from moving closer to fans or windows.