In the heart of Ghana lies the vibrant community of Ejisu-Besease in the Ejisu Municipality of the Ashanti Region, known far and wide for its rich cultural heritage. The community’s shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a testament to centuries of tradition, nestled in a lush green landscape.

A visionary project led by Adom Saahene and Beatrice Boatemaa Bediako resulted in the establishment of the space in the Ejisu-Besease community that is now a Spot. This initiative aimed to foster community development through education and provide improved learning opportunities for learners and residents. The project received high praise and approval from EduSpots after an application was sent in by the project leaders followed by a series of processes, including an inspection of the space by EduSpots.

The Spot will be hosted in a library space which has been abandoned for several years. The library space, which was once a cocoa shed where local farmers from nearby towns traded their cocoa beans, underwent a significant transformation in 2004 through the efforts of Professor Baffuor Agyeman-Duah and Dr Duah Yentumi. 

Professor Baffuor Agyeman-Duah and Dr Duah Yentumi took the initiative to refurbish the dilapidated building, converting it into a library to serve the community and the surrounding villages. This conversion marked a turning point in the history of the structure, turning it from a place of trade to a hub of knowledge and learning. The library played a pivotal role in offering access to books, resources, and educational opportunities to the community. 

However, despite the promising start, the library faced challenges and ultimately collapsed within three years of operation due to lack of proper management and insufficient community involvement, leaving the library dormant and neglected. The team have reached an agreement with stakeholders in the community including the Assembly Member and his team who have all shown positive energy towards the project and have committed to provide support including renovation of the space and serving on the project committee. 

In recognition of the commitment and dedication shown by the Ejisu-Besease community towards educational development, Catalysts from Ejisu-Besease were selected to participate in a prestigious 5-day Catalyse Ladership Academy held in Elmina. This Academy served as a platform for aspiring leaders to enhance their skills and knowledge, with a particular focus on community-driven projects.

Participants at the Academy were given 2 tablets and a router per Spot, which is to be used by Catalysts to enhance teaching and learning in the Spot. These digital devices were presented to Prof. Baffuor Agyeman-Duah, Mr. Kwadwo Ohemeng Assumaning and the board members of the Ejisu-Besease library, symbolizing a new chapter in the educational journey of learners and empowering the community through knowledge and learning.

Catalysts plan to continue collaborating with local stakeholders to secure resources and ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital community asset.