Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has directed the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES) and the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection to investigate the alleged sexual misconduct involving the headmaster of Obuasi Senior High School (SHS), Abdulai Zakaria.
The directive aims to establish the facts surrounding the allegations, protect students and ensure that anyone found responsible faces the appropriate administrative or legal consequences.
Speaking at a press conference, Mr Iddrisu confirmed that the officials had travelled to Obuasi to assess the situation. He also indicated that the school had fully reopened, with continuing and newly admitted students expected to resume normal academic activities.
Abdulai Zakaria Interdicted Pending Investigations
The headmaster, Abdulai Zakaria, has been interdicted pending investigations into the allegations. A case docket has also reportedly been forwarded to the Ghana Police Service for further action.
The Education Minister stressed that the government would allow the relevant institutions to investigate the matter thoroughly and follow due process before determining the next steps.
He cautioned journalists, politicians and members of the public against generalising the incident or suggesting that similar cases had occurred across Ghana’s 720 senior high schools without established evidence.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Student Protection
Mr Iddrisu assured the public that protecting students from sexual abuse, misconduct and other forms of exploitation remained a major government priority.
He said the Ministry of Education would use all available administrative and legal measures to ensure a credible investigation and prevent interference in the process.
The minister also urged the public to allow the Ghana Education Service, the police and other relevant authorities to establish the facts before drawing conclusions.
Education Minister Bans Students from Working in Teachers’ Private Homes
As part of efforts to strengthen student safety in schools, Mr Iddrisu has directed that students must not be required to perform services in teachers’ private homes.
The measure is intended to reinforce student protection and prevent situations that could expose learners to inappropriate behaviour or potential abuse.
He further appealed to parents and guardians to support the government’s initiatives by remaining vigilant and reporting suspected misconduct involving teachers or other school officials.
Parents, students and guardians have been encouraged to report concerns to school authorities or the appropriate institutions for investigation.
Investigations to Determine Next Steps
The investigations into the Obuasi SHS allegations are expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the case and guide decisions on any further disciplinary or legal action.
The Education Ministry has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding students and ensuring that schools remain safe environments for teaching and learning.
Source: newsthemegh.com