Squatters residing on the former Avenor Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) Primary land have agreed to voluntarily vacate their site to pave the way for the reconstruction of the school that was demolished due to its deplorable state.

Per the agreement, which was finally reached during a stakeholders’ engagement held between the AMA and the affected community members on Tuesday at the project site, affected squatters would not be compensated or provided with alternative housing options as well as any form of support during the transition period.

The Avenor school project, a pivotal educational development in the heart of Accra, is set to transform the landscape of learning for the community. However, the presence of informal settlements in the project's vicinity raised challenges for the reconstruction of the building. 

Speaking during the meeting, Coordinating Director of the AMA, Douglas N.K Annoful outlined the benefits the reconstruction of the school would have for the entire community and emphasized the importance of cooperation in realizing the shared vision of an improved educational infrastructure for the people of Avenor electoral area.

He pointed out that the agreement underscored the effectiveness of engaging in open dialogue and collaboration between local authorities and communities adding that the cooperative approach not only addresses the logistical challenges posed by informal settlements but also sets a positive precedent for inclusive urban development practices in the city. 

Mr. Annoful said the Assembly could not have begun the project without key stakeholders adding that the MP for Okai Koi South had collaborated with the Regional Coordinating Council to initiate the project, citing the perceived benefits a school would bring to the community.

He appealed to residents to cultivate a spirit of sacrifice and allow the project to roll unopposed insisting that other sub-metros in Accra were willing to grab the opportunity if presented to their leadership.

The leader of the community, Abubakar Abdul Aziz Banda in a remark during the engagement, said the project being introduced into the community was in the right direction as would promote education and foster a spirit of learning and literacy.

"While it is difficult to leave our current homes, we understand the significance of the school project for the future of our community. We appreciate the efforts of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly in considering our needs and ensuring a fair transition for all residents affected by the redevelopment, " he said. 

He assured that the community would cooperate with the Assembly to ensure the successful completion of the school project.