Social developments in the Gold Coast

Question 1

Provide examples of developments made in education, the purpose and the year of construction

Answer 1

• Achimota School (1924)- by Achimota School Board and the British colonial administration- aimed to provide a broad-based education and was open to students from different backgrounds.

Question 2

What were the positive impacts of developments made in education?

Answer 2

1. Educational Opportunities: The establishment of schools provided educational opportunities for the local population
2. Skills Development: Schools helped in developing various skills and competencies among the students. This was particularly important for creating a literate and skilled workforce, contributing to economic development.
3. Social Mobility: Education became a means of social mobility. Individuals, regardless of their social or economic background, had the opportunity to access education and improve their social status.

Question 3

What were the negative or challenges faced with developments made in education?

Answer 3

1. Cultural Imposition: The curriculum of many colonial schools often reflected the values and perspectives of the colonial powers. This could lead to the imposition of foreign cultural norms and erode local traditions.
2. Social Stratification: The education system, especially during the early colonial period, was not always designed to be inclusive. There were instances where certain groups had limited access to quality education, leading to social stratification.
3. Limited Vocational Training: The focus of some colonial education systems was more on academic education rather than vocational training. This could limit the practical skills needed for specific jobs and hinder economic diversification.

Question 4

Provide an example of developments made in healthcare, when and purpose of these developments.

Answer 4

2. Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (1954) - by British Colonial Administration - Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, located in Kumasi, was established to provide healthcare services and serve as a teaching hospital.

Question 5

What were the positive impacts of developments made in healthcare?

Answer 5

1. Introduction of Western Medicine: Colonial powers introduced Western medical practices, which led to improvements in healthcare
2. Control of Endemic Diseases: Western medicine contributed to the control and treatment of endemic diseases. Helped reduce the prevalence of diseases such as malaria, smallpox, and cholera.
3. Training of Local Healthcare Professionals: The colonial authorities and missionaries often established medical training institutions, providing opportunities for locals to become healthcare professionals.

Question 6

What were the negative impacts or challenges faced with developments made in healthcare?

Answer 6

1. Limited Access for Some Communities: Access to healthcare was often uneven, with some remote or marginalised communities having limited or no access to medical facilities.
2. Focus on Colonial Interests: The healthcare system was at times structured to meet the needs of the colonial powers rather than the local population.
3. Cultural Insensitivity: The Western medical system sometimes clashed with traditional healing practices and beliefs. This clash led to cultural insensitivity and a lack of understanding of local health practices, which undermined the effectiveness of healthcare interventions.

Question 7

Provide examples of developments made in urbanisation, period and purpose of these developments.

Answer 7

• Accra (Year of Establishment: 1877) - it became the administrative centre for the British colonial government. Accra served as a hub for trade, government offices, and other colonial activities.

Question 8

What were the positive impacts of developments made in urbanisation?

Answer 8

1. Infrastructure Development: Urbanization often led to the development of infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and buildings.
2. Economic Opportunities: Urban areas became centers of economic activity, attracting trade and commerce. The concentration of businesses and markets in urban centers created job opportunities and stimulated economic growth.
3. Administrative Efficiency: Urbanization facilitated the establishment of administrative centers, making it more efficient for colonial powers to govern the territories.

Question 9

What were the negative impacts or challenges faced with developments made in urbanisation?

Answer 9

1. ocial Inequalities: Urbanization contributed to the emergence of social inequalities. There was often a divide between the colonial officials, settlers, and the indigenous population, leading to disparities in living conditions, access to resources, and opportunities.
2. Loss of Traditional Livelihoods: As people migrated to urban areas in search of economic opportunities, there was a decline in traditional rural livelihoods.
3. Cultural Displacement: The rapid urbanization and the influence of Western culture often resulted in the displacement of traditional customs and ways of life