Reinstate, provide counselling to abused autistic BOGISS student immediately – Apaak to BOGISS

The Ministry of Education has condemned the alleged sexual abuse of a 14-year-old student with autism at Bolgatanga Girls’ Senior High School (BOGISS) in the Upper East Region.

The development follows a report by the Ghana Education Service (GES) concerning the alleged abuse of the student by two watchmen employed at the school.

The two watchmen have since been arrested and interdicted pending investigations into the matter.

In a statement signed by the Deputy Minister for Education, Dr Clement Abas Apaak, on Thursday, August 20, 2026, the Ministry said it was deeply concerned about the incident and condemned the alleged abuse in the strongest terms.

“Schools exist to protect and nurture students, and any breach of that trust — particularly by adults entrusted with safeguarding vulnerable children is unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” the statement said.

The Ministry stressed that the student should not be blamed for the alleged abuse, saying, “We wish to state unequivocally that a minor cannot be held responsible for sexual abuse perpetrated against her by an adult,” it said.

Following the report, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has directed the GES to investigate the matter and submit a report immediately.

The Minister has also directed the Service to ensure that the student receives all necessary medical attention and counselling to support her recovery.

In addition, the student is to be immediately reinstated to boarding status.

The Ministry said it would work with the relevant authorities to ensure that justice is served and the rights and wellbeing of the student are protected.

“We condemn in the strongest terms any act of sexual abuse or exploitation of a child under our care,” the Ministry said.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that schools remain safe environments for all students.