Ghana is not an exception to the grave concern that child sexual abuse is still a global problem. Both boys and girls are at risk, but because of cultural expectations of masculinity, boys frequently endure their suffering in silence and are reluctant to speak out about it. Recent reports have brought to light the alarming prevalence of sexual abuse of boys in Ghanaian secondary schools.
Kwame (a pseudonym), a student at a reputable boys’ school, bravely shared his harrowing experience of near sexual abuse by a teacher who invited him for “counselling” late at night. Despite his fear, Kwame complied but was subjected to inappropriate advances. He managed to escape, but the trauma left him fearful and absent from school for weeks. Like Kwame, many boys do not report abuse, fearing disbelief and further victimisation.
Cultural stereotypes that present boys as tough and resilient frequently contribute to the silence surrounding these abuses by discouraging boys from speaking out. However, sexual abuse has serious and long-lasting effects. Emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, is common among victims. Additionally, prevalent are physical harm, STDs, and social stigmatisation. Some boys even quit school to avoid being shunned by their peers or subjected to constant abuse.
Comprehensive measures are desperately needed to address this crisis. All levels of schools must implement appropriate sexuality education to equip students with the skills necessary to recognise and oppose abuse. Regular workshops on sexual harassment should be held, and peer counsellors should receive training on how to raise awareness among their peers.
It’s crucial to establish secure, confidential reporting channels to protect victims from discrimination and reprisals. Clear zero-tolerance messages must be prominently displayed in schools, and teachers must receive regular training on policies against sexual abuse. Additionally, offenders must face appropriate sanctions and comprehensive investigations, without being shielded or transferred.
Parents, society at large, and educational authorities must work together to protect our boys from sexual abuse in schools. We can only hope to protect the future and well-being of Ghana’s youth by speaking out.
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The writer is a Senior Lecturer/ Head of Department – Business Administration with University of Professional Studies, Accra
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