The Minister of Education, Mr. Haruna Iddrisu, has paid a working visit to schools in the Upper East Region to assess first-hand the challenges faced by teachers and the impact of the Bawku conflict on teaching and learning. Apexnewsgh reports His tour also took him to the Bolgatanga Technical Institute (Bolga Tech) where he inspected damages caused by recent student riots. Addressing stakeholders, Mr. Iddrisu expressed deep concern over the presence of security officers in educational institutions. “In the education space and in the learning environment, it is wrong, wrong, wrong to see men in uniform—whether military or police—on any campus. Education today is not just about literacy and numeracy, it’s about character molding and character building.” He warned that any compromise in shaping the values of tolerance, honesty, and integrity in young people would have far-reaching consequences for the nation’s future. “If polarization takes root in educational institutions, classrooms will remain silent and learning will be practically impossible. We will be denying these youngsters a secure, better future.” At Zamse Senior High/Technical School (ZAMSTEC), the Minister inspected uncompleted structures, including a teacher’s hostel, which he suggested could be converted into a girls’ dormitory once its structural integrity is confirmed. He emphasized the need for secured land and a protective wall for the school, assuring that such projects would receive priority attention. However, at Bolga Tech, Mr. Iddrisu was stern about the consequences of student indiscipline. “You go and fight and burn a library, then you turn around and say government should come and help you? I have asked that disciplinary actions be strictly enforced. Those culpable must be punished in accordance with the GES code of conduct.” He directed the school’s authorities to submit their final investigation report within seven days, stressing that justice must be swift and fair. “If children get it right at this age, they will get it right at age 60 or 80. If they miss the opportunity, the country misses the opportunity.” Looking ahead, the Minister reaffirmed government’s commitment under President Mahama’s agenda to inject massive investment into education in 2026. He announced a planned one billion cedi investment aimed at ending the double-track system, expanding infrastructure, rolling out a school connectivity program, and revolutionizing STEM education. Mr. Iddrisu also underscored the need to rebrand technical and vocational training in Ghana, not as an option for the less academically inclined, but as a strong pathway to skills and employment. On the issue of deploying armed security in schools, he was categorical: “No, I don’t support uniforms and glasses in schools. Why should you take a uniform? What do you want in this country, raising students to arms and uniforms? I’m sorry, that’s not acceptable. We’ll never allow that practice.” The Minister concluded by assuring that issues such as inadequate furniture would also be addressed, but insisted that discipline, peace, and values must remain at the heart of Ghana’s education system. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

The President of the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS), Daniel Korley Botchway, has announced that more than 170,000 students have so far benefited from the No Fee Stress Policy, a flagship initiative introduced by the Mahama-led administration. Mr. Botchway revealed that the policy has significantly eased the financial burden on parents and students, leading to improved access to education and fostering academic excellence across the country. He explained that the policy provides support for students in public tertiary institutions, including universities, colleges of education, and nursing training institutions. Despite the program’s success, Mr. Botchway acknowledged that some students are still awaiting their disbursements due to delays in the validation process. Highlighting the policy’s broader impact, Mr. Botchway noted that its second phase allows students to access loans, which are repayable two years after graduation. He praised the Ministry of Education and the sector minister, Haruna Iddrisu, for their dedication and support in implementing the policy. In related developments, Angel Carbonu, President of the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), commended Minister Haruna Iddrisu for his collaborative approach to educational reforms. Carbonu also disclosed that ongoing engagements with stakeholders are expected to see around 99 Senior High Schools removed from the double-track system soon. Furthermore, Irene Sam, Public Relations Officer of the National Council of Parent-Teacher Associations (PTA), applauded the minister for reintegrating PTAs into the school system. She emphasized that this move has strengthened school-community relations and reinforced the policy direction within the education sector. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

The Newly Posted Teachers. Comprising graduates from Colleges of Education and universities, these teachers had devoted themselves to shaping the future of Ghana, only to find themselves trapped in a web of financial uncertainty. For twelve long months, the college-trained teachers had waited for their first salaries. Their colleagues from the universities had endured eight months of the same ordeal. The unpaid months had taken their toll, leaving the teachers struggling to pay rent, buy food, settle medical bills, and keep up with utility payments. The situation, described by many as “devastating,” had even claimed lives among their ranks. “Many of us can no longer pay our rent, which is overdue. We are unable to settle our utility bills, and even basic needs such as food and medical bills remain unmet,” lamented a member of the group. The pain in their voices underscored the gravity of their plight. At a press briefing held in Accra, the Lead Convener, Simon Kofi Nartey, made a heartfelt appeal to President Mahama. He urged the President to intervene and prompt the Ministry of Finance to release the long-awaited funds. “We know that His Excellency, John Dramani Mahama, is a listening president. We humbly call for his urgent intervention to ensure that the Ministry of Finance releases the necessary funds to pay our arrears and salaries without further delay,” Nartey stated. The teachers, united in their cause, have issued a stern warning: if their staff ID numbers are not issued, their salaries are not validated, and arrears are not paid by the end of September 2025, they will take to the principal streets of Accra in a massive demonstration. This protest, they say, will be their way of registering both their displeasure and the hardship they have endured for far too long. The fate of these teachers, and the future of those they teach, now hangs in the balance, awaiting a response from the nation’s leaders. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

The Institute for Liberty and Policy Innovation (ILAPI) has ushered in a new era of thought leadership with the appointment of Desmond Israel Esq. as its Senior Policy Research Fellow. This strategic move underscores ILAPI’s growing influence in the fields of business regulation, cyberlaw, and digital governance, all in pursuit of a freer and more innovative society. Desmond Israel is no stranger to the intersection of law and technology. With over 20 years of experience as a legal tech strategist and cybersecurity expert, Israel brings a wealth of interdisciplinary expertise to ILAPI’s mission of fostering a prosperous and innovation-driven Africa. At ILAPI, he will spearhead the institute’s Business Regulatory and Cyberlaw Initiatives, setting the stage for transformative policy work. In his new role, Israel will: Lead policy research and analysis, offering critical insights on governance and institutional reform. Provide strategic advisory on AI governance, digital risk management, and frameworks that advance liberty. Oversee the implementation of ILAPI’s flagship projects, ensuring their impact across Africa. Mentor junior fellows and interns, nurturing the next generation of research and policy leaders. Israel’s appointment reflects ILAPI’s deep commitment to ethical innovation and digital sovereignty. Beyond his new role, Israel serves as Partner in the Cyberlaw & Technology Practice at AGNOS Legal Company, Founder & Lead Consultant at Information Security Architects Ltd (a Rapid7 Gold Partner), and Non-Executive Director (Cyber & Privacy Advisory) at Zerone AnalytiQs in British Columbia, Canada. His expertise covers data protection compliance, AI regulatory alignment, and enterprise IT governance. A recipient of the GW Law Merit Scholarship, Israel holds an LL.M. in National Security and Cybersecurity from The George Washington University Law School and is certified in CISSP, CIPM, CCT, and CC. Israel is a renowned keynote speaker at global conferences, known for bridging legal, technological, and human rights perspectives. He teaches Technology Law at GIMPA Law School and consults with the National Banking College to design board-level programs on cyber risk and AI strategy for financial institutions throughout Africa. His policy collaborations span notable organizations such as the Center for AI and Digital Policy in Washington, D.C., and the Internet Security Alliance in Virginia. ILAPI hails Israel’s appointment as a “significant step toward advancing freedom, ethical innovation, robust governance, and digital sovereignty in Africa and beyond.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) is calling for bold new measures to protect the integrity of Ghana’s education system. Mr. John Kapi, Head of Public Affairs at WAEC, has appealed to the government to consider installing surveillance cameras in examination centres across the country, a move he believes is crucial in the ongoing fight against exam malpractice. In a recent media interview, Mr. Kapi acknowledged that WAEC has been working tirelessly to educate students and stakeholders about the dangers and consequences of cheating during exams. However, he noted that awareness campaigns alone are not enough. “Sensitisation alone is not enough. The installation of cameras in exam halls will serve as both a deterrent and a monitoring tool to curb malpractice,” he explained. Mr. Kapi warned that examination malpractice not only threatens the credibility of Ghana’s education system but also undermines the value of certificates issued by WAEC. He cautioned that failure to act decisively could have long-lasting consequences for the nation’s human resource development. He concluded by urging the government and all education stakeholders to provide WAEC with the necessary logistics and resources to enhance examination monitoring nationwide, ensuring that Ghana’s academic credentials remain respected and trusted both locally and internationally. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

Dr. Palgrave Boakye-Danquah, a former Government Spokesperson on Governance and Security, has urged the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) to redirect its scrutiny from Deputy Health Minister Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah and instead investigate the widespread use of unaccredited titles by religious bodies and individuals. Speaking to a media platform, August 19, Dr. Boakye-Danquah argued that GTEC’s focus on Dr. Ayensu-Danquah’s academic credentials was misplaced. He pointed out that many individuals, particularly within religious circles, use honorary and unaccredited titles without oversight. “GTEC should leave the Deputy Minister alone. I think that there are people who are using titles that they must pursue. From a religious background, I know that some people hold themselves with certain titles. GTEC is supposed to look at all institutions as they are,” he said. Dr. Boakye-Danquah highlighted the issue of some theological institutions in Ghana operating without proper accreditation, yet still issuing certificates and conferring titles. He urged GTEC to “turn their attention to the religious bodies—those that are using Reverend, Rev. Dr., etc., that are also not accredited,” suggesting that such action would help sanitise the system. His remarks come amid an ongoing dispute between GTEC and Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, who is also the Member of Parliament for Essikadu-Ketan. GTEC has challenged her claim to the academic rank of professor and has cautioned her against presenting herself with the title. In a letter to the Chief of Staff, GTEC requested that Dr. Ayensu-Danquah provide proof of her professorial appointment by August 11, 2025. Dr. Ayensu-Danquah’s legal team, led by David K. Ametefe, responded on August 8, asserting that she was appointed Assistant Professor of Surgery by the University of Utah in the United States. The lawyers argued that GTEC had no authority to demand proof of an appointment made outside Ghana and warned that if the Commission did not withdraw its correspondence within 14 days, they would seek legal remedies to protect their client’s reputation. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

By Mabel Darko Boateng  “Children must be safe and feel safe in school; only then can they truly learn.” — Arne Duncan (Former U.S. Secretary of Education, 2009 – 2016) Introduction Ghanaian schools, once regarded as safe havens for learning and discipline, now face an alarming wave of violence that threatens education at all levels. From Senior High Schools (SHSs) to universities, conflict, weapon possession, and serious fights have created fear and uncertainty for students, teachers, and communities. Incidents of School Violence In January 2025, clashes broke out between Accra Technical Centre and Kinbu Secondary Technical School, followed by a machete fight between Kumasi Technical Institute and Kumasi Anglican SHS. Again, February recorded a stabbing at Salaga SHS, where police recovered a pistol and ammunition, arresting 20 students. Also, Sokode SHS in the Volta Region was shut down after violent confrontations with residents. Tragedy struck Adventist SHS at Bantama in April, when second-year student Suzzy Pinamang suffered a permanent eye injury after a male classmate allegedly brought a gun to class and accidentally discharged it. In June, ethnic tensions at Nkwanta SHS in the Oti Region claimed three lives: two girls shot on their way home and a boy killed by a stray bullet in class. July brought a grim succession of incidents as Bawku SHS became a centre of tragedy when final-year student Hakim Kundima was fatally shot on campus. That same day, two students at Nalerigu SHS were killed in related shootings. While it can be said that these occurred in conflict areas, school violence is no longer confined to conflict zones. The month also saw a fatal stabbing over money at St Joseph Technical Institute, the killing of a Wa T.I. Ahmadiyya SHS student after a quarrel over an unwanted video, chaos at Zuarungu SHS over a stolen phone, and a viral video from Accra Academy showing students attacking a junior with a cutlass. The violence has also reached tertiary institutions. In February, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology was shaken by the suspected murder of final-year student Joana Deladem Yabani. A University of Energy and Natural Resources student survived a machete attack while returning from night classes in March. In contrast, gunmen killed one student and injured another at Gambaga College of Education. Also, in April, a first-year student at the University of Education, Winneba, died by suicide. Teachers have also become targets. Assaults on educators are increasing, with unions accusing authorities of inaction and advising members to withdraw services when threatened. When those entrusted with shaping young minds cannot feel safe, the foundation of education begins to crumble. Causes of School Violence The drivers of this surge in violence are complex: weak discipline enforcement, peer pressure, poor parental supervision, social media glorification of aggression, and easy access to illegal weapons. In troubled areas like Bawku, machetes, pangas, and guns have entered campuses.  Response by Authorities In Bawku and Nkwanta (Oti region), authorities closed all affected schools, evacuating students preparing for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). The Small Arms Commission and Peace Council are working to curb the flow, while the GES and National School Inspectorate Authority have intensified code-of-conduct enforcement, inspections, and security agency collaboration. Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu’s July 2025 directive for urgent inspections and disciplinary action signalled official recognition of the crisis. Consequences of School Violence The cost is profound: lives lost, physical and psychological trauma, eroded trust between teachers and students, and disrupted academic activities. Beyond discipline issues, these attacks undermine education’s mission to provide safe, supportive spaces for growth and social cohesion. Closures and curfews derail exam preparation, while repeated exposure to violence leaves students traumatised, affecting attendance and performance. Way Forward Addressing this siege demands a comprehensive approach, stronger campus security, peer mediation, counselling, positive student leadership, and deeper parental and community involvement. Ethnic and communal disputes that spill into schools must be addressed at their roots. Securing campuses must be non-negotiable, with long-term measures like risk mapping, reinforced perimeters, and rapid-response systems. Alternative learning platforms, from radio lessons to safe temporary sites, should ensure education continues during crises (activating Education-in-Emergencies should be non-negotiable). Schools must also rebuild civic responsibility. Discipline should be firm but fair. Counselling services should be expanded, and teachers trained in trauma-informed care and conflict resolution. The justice system must act decisively; those who bring weapons to school or orchestrate attacks must face swift consequences. “Investigations are ongoing” will not save the next student. When impunity ends, deterrence begins. Conclusion Ghanaian schools are at a crossroads. Ending this siege requires not just soldiers at the gates, but a collective refusal by parents, chiefs, pastors, and policymakers to normalise violence. If we lose the classroom as a place of peace, we will lose more than exam results and the very citizens who can hold our democracy together. That is a price the nation cannot afford to pay. ***The writer is a Communications Associate with the Institute for Education Studies (IFEST_Ghana), an education think tank in Ghana.