LONGSA: The Communities of Excellence Programme has significantly impacted local communities in Ghana, encouraging residents to take charge of their development projects, particularly in education and health sectors. Launched by UNICEF and funded by Jacobs Foundation, the initiative aims to foster a sense of ownership and communal spirit among the locals. According to Ghana News Agency, the programme, which started in 2022 and is set to conclude next month, operates in the Kwahu Afram Plains North Municipality of the Eastern Region and the Builsa North Municipality of the Upper East Region. It has led to the construction of a primary school in Longsa, reducing the distance children need to travel for education. Madam Leticia Akumkaseh, Queen Mother of Longsa, highlighted that the programme helped change the local perception that government alone was responsible for meeting educational needs. This shift has resulted in increased parental involvement and community-led fundraising efforts. UNICEF provided esse ntial training for community stakeholders, enabling them to support government and NGO development efforts effectively. Mr. Joseph Ateng, Headteacher at Longsa Primary School, reported that the programme had led to a rise in school enrollment and improved academic performance. Additionally, the community began constructing a health facility to enhance access to quality healthcare, particularly for children. The initiative also saw contributions from the 1976 Year Group of Ayieta Primary School, who assisted in school renovations. Madam Gifty Abakisi, Headteacher at Ayieta Primary School, mentioned that the programme included training that helped the school start a dry season garden, providing nutritious food for pupils and complementing government efforts. Mr. Kennedy Afagachie, Builsa North Focal Person for the programme, shared that it engaged approximately 14,571 pupils across various educational levels and activated about 175 School Management Committees and Parent Teacher Associations with nearly 12,74 3 members. He noted significant improvements in enrollment rates and the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) sector due to the programme. Madam Gloria Tisong Dakpallah, Education Officer at UNICEF, expressed satisfaction with the programme's impact, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in sustaining development initiatives. She revealed that the Ghana Accountability for Learning Outcomes Programme would extend this initiative to about 100 districts under the new name, the District Excellence Programme.