NCPTAs demands nationwide vetting of school security personnel after BOGISS abuse case

The National Council of Parent-Teacher Associations (NCPTAs) has called for a nationwide vetting and audit of security personnel and other non-teaching staff in schools following the alleged sexual abuse of a 14-year-old student with autism at Bolgatanga Girls’ Senior High School (BOGISS).

The Council said the incident raises serious concerns about the recruitment, age, background, and preparedness of personnel entrusted with the safety of students, particularly children, with special educational needs.

In a statement dated August 20, 2026, the NCPTAs commended the Ministry of Education for its immediate condemnation of the alleged abuse, directive for an investigation, provision of medical and psychosocial support to the victim, and order for the immediate reinstatement of her boarding status.

“This affirms that the welfare of the child comes first,” the Council said.

The NCPTAs also commended the Ghana Education Service (GES) for interdicting the two watchmen allegedly involved in the incident while praising the Upper East Regional Police Command for arresting the suspects and committing them to prosecution.

However, the Council said the response must go beyond the immediate case and lead to a broader review of school security systems across the country.

“We therefore call on GES to sanitize its space and institute an immediate policy shift to engage strong, alert, and vibrant youth of character and integrity as security personnel, properly vetted and trained,” it stated.

The call follows concern over the involvement of a 72-year-old man among the suspects, with the NCPTAs questioning the basis for employing someone beyond retirement age in a school security role.

“We question the basis and justification for employing a person of retirement age in a role that demands vigilance, strength, and sound judgment to protect children,” the Council said.

“Our schools must not be a dumping ground for public service retirees.”

The NCPTAs want the GES to conduct a nationwide vetting and audit of security personnel and other non-teaching staff, covering age, background checks, and fitness for duty.

It also demanded mandatory child protection and safeguarding training, including specific modules for personnel who work with students with special educational needs.

The Council said recruitment practices must also be reviewed to ensure schools are staffed with personnel capable of effectively safeguarding students.

On the prosecution of the suspects, the NCPTAs said the matter “goes beyond internal discipline. It is a criminal offence against a child.”

It called on the Attorney-General, Director of Public Prosecutions, and the Judiciary to ensure diligent prosecution under the relevant laws.

“We insist: No plea bargains. No delays. Justice must be seen to be done,” the Council stated.

The NCPTAs further urged parents, school authorities, and stakeholders to strengthen safeguarding measures, including monitored access points, safe and supervised device-charging areas, and strict visitor logs.

It also called on PTAs to make child protection education part of their regular engagements.

The Council assured the victim and her family of the support of the wider parent community, saying, “You are a daughter of Ghana. The entire parent community is behind you, and we will ensure your recovery and rights are prioritized.”

“Ghanaian parents are united on this. We will not accept silence. We will not accept impunity. We demand a school system that is safe, dignified, and accountable,” the NCPTAs added.