‘Severe consequences’ await students who attack teachers – Education Ministry warns

The Ministry of Education has warned that assaults on teachers will attract severe consequences, following a series of violent incidents reported in schools across the country.

In a press statement issued on February 19 and signed by the Deputy Minister for Education, Dr Clement Abas Apaak, the Ministry expressed grave concern over cases involving attacks on teachers by students and other acts of violence in educational institutions. 

It stressed that any individual, including students, who assaults a teacher in the lawful performance of their duties will face sanctions in accordance with the laws of Ghana.

The Ministry said it has supported firm action against perpetrators in all cases brought to its attention, signalling what it described as a zero-tolerance approach to indiscipline and criminal conduct within schools.

It cited a recent incident at Kade Senior High Technical School, where individuals involved in the assault of a tutor were arrested and arraigned before the Kade District Court. The accused persons pleaded guilty to charges including conspiracy and assault and were subsequently convicted and fined.

The statement also condemned misconduct recorded during the Super Zonal Sports Competition in the Eastern Region, which involved a reported stabbing and an alleged sexual assault. The suspects in that case have been arrested and remain in police custody assisting with investigations, while victims are receiving medical and psychosocial support.

In another development, two students and an accomplice from West Africa Senior High School have been arraigned before the Adenta Circuit Court in connection with the assault of a teacher. The accused persons have been remanded in police custody for six weeks pending further court proceedings.

At the 54th Delegates Conference of the Ghana National Association of Teachers, John Dramani Mahama reaffirmed that attacks on teachers would not be tolerated under any circumstances and pledged the government’s commitment to protecting educators.

The Ministry said it fully aligns with the President’s position and will continue to collaborate with law enforcement agencies and the judiciary to ensure justice is served and to prevent further incidents.

The statement emphasised that beyond condemning such acts, the Ministry is taking concrete steps through the courts to demand justice for victims and safeguard teachers nationwide.

Read the full statement below