Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has given the Ghana Education Service (GES) full backing to enforce a zero-tolerance policy against criminal conduct in schools. This directive empowers the GES to take firm action against students whose behaviour threatens the safety and security of the school environment. The Minister’s announcement came during a national conference in Sunyani focused on addressing growing indiscipline in schools.
Mr. Iddrisu stated that the government would provide complete support to the GES in implementing this policy. He emphasised that criminal behaviour must not be tolerated within Ghana’s educational institutions. The Minister warned that allowing such conduct to persist could undermine the fundamental purpose of schools as safe spaces for teaching and learning. He stressed that the GES now has the authority and backing of the President and the State to declare zero tolerance for criminal acts.
This policy intervention comes amid increasing concerns over serious forms of indiscipline in senior high schools. Reports indicate a rise in gang-related violence, attacks on teachers, and other acts of misconduct. These incidents have increasingly raised questions about the overall safety and security within school premises. The changing nature of indiscipline, with behaviours previously seen mainly in tertiary institutions now appearing in senior high schools, has prompted this strong response.
Speaking at the conference, Mr. Iddrisu was unequivocal in his stance. “Today, you have my authority and support, and that of the President and the State, to declare zero tolerance for criminal conduct,” he stated. He further assured the GES, saying, “You have no excuse not to let it work, and you have our full support to make it work.” This strong endorsement provides the GES with the necessary mandate to distinguish between minor disciplinary issues and serious criminal acts.
The implications of this policy are significant for school authorities and students alike. It places renewed responsibility on the GES and individual school administrations to identify and address criminal behaviour decisively. The directive aims to restore and maintain order, ensuring that schools remain conducive environments for education. Decision-makers will closely monitor the implementation of this policy to assess its effectiveness in curbing indiscipline and enhancing school safety across the country.
Professor Ernest Kofi Davis, Director-General of the GES, also expressed concerns at the conference. He highlighted that behaviours typically associated with tertiary institutions are now increasingly prevalent in senior high schools. This shift underscores the urgency of the new zero-tolerance approach. The policy seeks to prevent schools from becoming insecure and unsafe, which would ultimately compromise the quality of learning for all students.
This move aligns with broader efforts to strengthen the educational system and ensure student well-being. The government’s commitment to supporting the GES reflects a recognition that a secure learning environment is foundational to academic success. Future actions will likely involve enhanced collaboration between school authorities, law enforcement, and communities to enforce the new standards effectively. The success of this policy will be crucial for the future of Ghana’s education sector.