Upper East GJA Awards: Gov’t will restore discipline in schools – Dr. Apaak

Deputy Education Minister Dr Clement Apaak has pledged the government’s readiness to restore discipline and order in Ghana’s second-cycle institutions following recent violent incidents.

Aide to the deputy minister, Sampson Samari, addressing the media at the 4th Upper East Regional GJA Awards in Bolgatanga, on behalf of the Deputy Minister, described the rising cases of student riots and vandalism as “deeply worrying” and “a threat to the very future of our young people.”

He revealed that at least five senior high schools in the Upper East Region, Bolgatanga Technical Institute (BOTECH), Bawku Senior High School, Sirigu Integrated Senior High School, Zuarungu Senior High School, and Gowrie Senior High Technical School, have recorded violent disturbances this year.

“These clashes have led to destruction of property, injuries, and in some cases, the closure of schools,” he lamented.

Dr Apaak said such incidents undermine academic progress and waste scarce educational resources.

“Violence in schools destroys the environment of discipline and respect that education requires,” he stressed. “If unchecked, it will damage the image of our region and rob our youth of the skills they need for tomorrow.”

He emphasized that addressing indiscipline in schools demands a collective approach.

“School authorities must enforce discipline firmly but fairly,” he urged. “Parents must play their role in nurturing values at home, and students must understand that rights come with responsibilities.”

According to him, the government supports actions that ensure sanctions in schools are both corrective and deterrent.

“Our schools must be places of discipline, learning, and hope, not grounds for violence and destruction,” he said, noting that the Ministry of Education is committed to working with stakeholders to restore calm and reinforce moral training in schools.

Dr Apaak also called on community leaders and the media to use their platforms to promote peace, tolerance, and respect among students.

“We all have a role to play in shaping disciplined citizens,” he said. “If we fail to act now, we risk losing a generation to lawlessness and despair.”

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring a safe and disciplined learning environment across the country.