Ferdinand | Education Ghana | February 24 | Senior Housemaster Suspended at Over Alleged Misconduct involving three female students
Nkenkaasu Senior High School suspends Senior Housemaster Mr. Akwasi Opoku over alleged unprofessional conduct involving three female students as investigations begin.
Management of in the Offinso North District of the Ashanti Region has suspended its Senior Housemaster, Mr. Akwasi Opoku, pending investigations into alleged misconduct.
In an official letter dated February 23, 2026, and signed by the Headmaster, Mr. Abraham Sekyere, the school indicated that it had reviewed the conduct of Mr. Opoku in a matter involving himself and three female students.
Alleged Unprofessional Conduct
According to the letter, management considers the reported behaviour “unprofessional” and stated that it has brought the name of the school and the into disrepute.
The specifics of the allegations were not detailed in the suspension notice.
Directive to Step Aside
Mr. Opoku, who holds the rank of Assistant Director I and serves as Senior Housemaster, has been directed to step aside from his position pending further investigations and consultations.
He has also been instructed to hand over his responsibilities to the Assistant Headmaster in charge of Domestic Affairs with immediate effect.
Investigation Expected
Copies of the letter were forwarded to the District Director of the Ghana Education Service in Akumadan, as well as other key members of the school’s management team.
Education observers note that such interim suspensions are standard administrative procedures within the Ghana Education Service when allegations involving staff and students arise. The measure is typically taken to ensure impartial investigations and safeguard student welfare.
Further updates are expected as investigations proceed.
Religious accommodation in public examinations concerns the extent to which state institutions adjust examination procedures to respect the sincerely held beliefs of candidates, while preserving fairness, integrity, and uniform standards. In plural societies such as Ghana and Nigeria, the issue often arises in relation to dress codes, prayer times, fasting periods, and the scheduling of examinations on major religious observances.
Public examinations are administered by statutory bodies. In Ghana, it conducts the WASSCE and BECE on behalf of member states. In Nigeria, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board administers the UTME for tertiary admissions. These bodies are required to operate within constitutional frameworks that guarantee freedom of religion, while also safeguarding equal treatment of all candidates.
Constitutional and Legal Foundations
Freedom of religion is protected under Article 21 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana and under Section 38 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria. These provisions affirm the right of individuals to manifest their religion in worship, observance, practice, and teaching. However, such rights are not absolute. They may be limited by laws reasonably required in the interest of public order, public safety, and the rights of others.
In the examination context, authoritiesmust therefore balance two competing principles: the right to religious expression and the obligation to maintain standardised examination conditions. Any accommodation must not confer an unfair advantage or undermine exam security.
Forms of Religious Accommodation
Religious accommodation in examinations may take several forms:
Dress and Appearance Issues frequently arise regarding religious attire such as hijabs, head coverings, or other faith based garments. Examination bodies often permit such attire provided identity verification can be conducted securely and discreetly. In recent years, public debate followed statements clarifying that hijab removal was not required during certain examination registrations, reflecting sensitivity to religious identity.
Scheduling Conflicts Examinations sometimes coincide with major religious observances. Where feasible, alternative sittings or minor scheduling adjustments may be considered. However, large scale national examinations make broad rescheduling difficult without affecting fairness and logistics.
Prayer Considerations For long examinations that overlap with mandatory prayer times, candidates may request brief supervised breaks. Authorities must ensure such arrangements do not compromise exam integrity or provide access to unauthorized materials.
Fasting Periods During Ramadan or other fasting seasons, candidates may experience physical strain. Examination bodies generally do not alter core schedules but may ensure conducive environments, including adequate ventilation and appropriate timing within the day.
Examination authorities must establish clear guidelines before the examination period. Ambiguity often fuels controversy. Policies should specify acceptable religious attire, identification procedures, and complaint mechanisms.
For instance, if a candidate wears a religious covering that obscures facial features, verification may be conducted by a same gender official in a private setting. This protects dignity while maintaining security standards.
The and other supervisory bodies also play advisory roles in guiding schools on lawful and inclusive practices during examinations.
Risks and Controversies
Religious accommodation can become contentious when perceived as preferential treatment. Critics may argue that adjustments disrupt uniformity or create administrative burdens. Others contend that failure to accommodate marginalises minority faith groups and undermines constitutional guarantees.
Public discourse often intensifies when enforcement appears inconsistent across centres. Uniform national directives are therefore critical to prevent arbitrary decisions by individual supervisors.
Another risk lies in politicisation. Religious issues in education can quickly attract partisan commentary, complicating the objective implementation of policy.
Ethical and Educational Considerations
Beyond legal compliance, there is a moral dimension. Schoolsand examination bodies operate within multicultural societies. Respect for diversity strengthens social cohesion and affirms the dignity of candidates.
At the same time, academic credibility depends on uniform assessment conditions. Any accommodation must preserve equal opportunity. The guiding principle should be reasonable accommodation that does not impose undue hardship on the system or compromise fairness.
Toward a Balanced Framework
A sound approach to religious accommodation in public examinations should include:
Clear, publicly available policy guidelines
Training for examination officials on diversity and rights
Secure and respectful identity verification procedures
A formal complaint and review mechanism
Transparent communication before examination periods
Consultation with religious leaders and civil society organizations can also help to anticipate potential tensions before they escalate.
Conclusion
Religious accommodation in public examinations is neither a concession nor a threat to standards. It is a governance challenge that requires balance, clarity, and consistency. In plural democracies, examination bodies must uphold both constitutional freedoms and the integrity of assessment systems.
When handled with prudence and transparency, accommodation strengthens trust in public institutions and affirms that equal citizenship includes respect for faith within lawful limits.
The management of student discipline in Ghana’s public pre tertiary schools is guided by a structured administrative and legal framework. It operates under national education laws, service regulations, and child protection standards to ensure that disciplinary processes are lawful, corrective, and consistent with the rights of learners.
Student discipline is not treated as a matter of punishment alone. It is approached as part of moral training, character formation, and school order. The objective is to correct behaviour, maintain a safe learning environment, and prevent recurrence.
Legal and Policy Framework
GES derives its mandate from the Education Act, 2008(Act 778), as amended, and operates within constitutional guarantees that protect the dignity and rights of children. Schools are also guided by the GES Code of Conduct for students, school rules approved by Boards of Governors or School Management Committees, and child protection guidelines aligned with Ghana’s Children’s Act, 1998 (Act 560).
Corporal punishment is regulated and must comply with national directives. In recent years, emphasis has shifted toward guidance, counselling, restorative practices, and positive discipline strategies.
The Initial Reporting Process
A disciplinary case often begins with a report. This may come from a teacher, student, prefect, non-teaching staff member, or sometimes a parent. Common cases include absenteeism, bullying, examination malpractice, vandalism, fighting, substance abuse, and in extreme instances, sexual misconduct or criminal activity.
Once reported, the class teacher or subject teacher usually documents the incident. Minor infractions are often handled at the classroom level through warnings, counselling, or corrective tasks.
If the matter is serious or repetitive, it is escalated to the head of department, senior housemaster or housemistress in boarding schools, or directly to the headteacher or headmaster.
Investigation and Due Process
GES procedures require that students be given an opportunity to explain themselves. The principle of natural justice applies. The student must be informed of the allegation and allowed to respond before sanctions are imposed.
For serious offences, the school may convene a disciplinary committee. In senior high schools, this committee typically includes members of the school administration, guidance and counselling coordinators, housemasters, and sometimes representatives of the Board of Governors.
The committee reviews written reports, hears testimonies, and examines available evidence. Parents or guardians are usually invited when cases involve suspension, dismissal, or matters that could affect the student’s academic progression.
Documentation is essential. Schools are expected to keep proper records of proceedings, findings, and decisions.
Types of Sanctions
Sanctions vary according to the severity of the offence and the student’s disciplinary history. These may include:
Verbal or written warnings
Extra academic assignments
Withdrawal of privileges
Manual work within the school compound
Suspension for a defined period
Dismissal in extreme cases
Suspension and dismissal must follow approved procedures. In senior high schools, dismissals often require endorsement by the Regional Director of Education before they become final.
GES emphasises proportionality. The punishment must match the offence and should not humiliate or endanger the student.
Role of Guidance and Counselling
Increasingly, GES promotes counselling as a central part of discipline management. Many schools have designated guidance coordinators trained to support students facing behavioural challenges.
Counselling sessions aim to identify underlying causes such as peer pressure, family difficulties, academic stress, or mental health concerns. The intention is reform rather than exclusion.
Where necessary, schools may refer cases to social welfare officers, child protection units, or health professionals.
Involvement of External Authorities
If a disciplinary case involves criminal conduct such as assault, drug trafficking, or sexual offences, the matter may be reported to the police. In such instances, school discipline processes run alongside legal proceedings.
GES works with district assemblies, social welfare departments, and security agencies when student welfare or public safety is at stake.
Appeals and Oversight
Parents who are dissatisfied with a disciplinary decision may petition higher authorities. Complaints can be directed to the District Education Office, Regional Education Directorate, or ultimately to the GES Headquarters.
This layered oversight ensures that disciplinary decisions are not arbitrary and that schools adhere to national standards.
Balancing Authority and Rights
Handling student discipline requires balance. Schools must maintain order while respecting student rights. Excessive punishment can damage trust, while weak enforcement can undermine authority.
GES therefore encourages preventive measures such as student leadership training, peer mediation programmes, civic education, and co curricular engagement. Schools are advised to build a culture of respect and accountability rather than rely solely on sanctions.
Conclusion
Student discipline within GES is governed by formal procedures, legal safeguards, and administrative oversight. From classroom level interventions to regional reviews of dismissals, the system seeks to combine correction with fairness.
In practice, effectiveness depends on the professionalism of school leaders, the cooperation of parents, and the broader culture within each institution. When properly applied, GES disciplinary processes serve not only to address misconduct but also to shape responsible citizenship among Ghana’s youth.
Sportoccupies a central place in the life of Ghana’s senior high schools. Beyond recreation, it is woven into the broader philosophy of secondary education, which seeks to produce disciplined, healthy, and socially responsible young citizens. Within the framework of the , sports are regarded as an integral component of holistic education rather than an optional add on.
Physical Health and Well Being
Adolescence is a critical stage of physical growth and emotional development. Regular participation in athletics, football, volleyball, basketball, handball, and track events promotes cardiovascular fitness, strength, coordination, and endurance. In a context where sedentary habits are increasing due to digital engagement, school sports provide a structured avenue for movement and exercise.
Health education is reinforced through sporting activities. Students learn about nutrition, injury prevention, hygiene, and responsible lifestyle choices. These lessons complement the Physical Education curriculum and contribute to lifelong healthy habits.
Character Formation and Discipline
Sport in senior high schools is closely linked to character education. Training sessions demand punctuality, commitment, and respect for authority. Students learn to follow instructions from coaches and team captains. They experience the consequences of indiscipline, both individually and collectively.
Participation in inter school competitions such as regional qualifiers and national championships requires adherence to rules, codes of conduct, and fair play principles. In this way, sport becomes a practical training ground for integrity and accountability.
Leadership and Teamwork
Team sports cultivate cooperation. Students must communicate effectively, resolve internal disagreements, and work toward shared goals. Leadership skills are developed through captaincy roles, sports prefect positions, and organizing committees for school events.
These experiences prepare learners for civic engagement and professional life. The ability to collaborate under pressure, accept constructive criticism, and motivate peers is often shaped on the sports field rather than in the classroom.
Academic Motivation and Balance
Contrary to the assumption that sports distract from academic work, many schools in Ghana have demonstrated that structured sports programmes can improve academic engagement. Students who participate in sports often develop better time management skills. Training schedules require them to plan study time carefully.
In many senior high schools, eligibility for sports participation is tied to academic performance and conduct. This linkage encourages students to maintain satisfactory grades and discipline in order to remain active members of their teams.
Talent Identification and Career Pathways
Senior high school sports serve as a pipeline for national and international athletic development. Ghana has produced prominent athletes whose talents were first recognized during inter school competitions.
For instance, footballers such as and other sports personalities trace part of their early exposure to structured school competitions. National events like the provide platforms for scouting and scholarships.
Sports scholarships to tertiary institutions are often awarded to outstanding student athletes. Some students also gain opportunities to compete internationally, which broadens their educational and cultural horizons.
Ghana’s senior high schools are culturally diverse. Students from different regions, ethnic groups, and socio economic backgrounds converge in boarding institutions. Sports help to break down social barriers and foster unity.
During inter house competitions and inter school festivals, rivalry is expressed within controlled boundaries. While tensions occasionally arise, the broader objective remains peaceful competition and mutual respect. Shared victories and defeats strengthen collective identity.
Institutional Visibility and Pride
Sports achievements contribute to a school’s public image. Institutions known for excellence in athletics often attract increased attention and enrolment interest. School pride is reinforced when teams win regional or national trophies.
This visibility can translate into community support, alumni engagement, and infrastructural investment. Sports therefore play both an educational and strategic role in institutional development.
Challenges and the Way Forward
Despite its value, sports in many senior high schools face challenges. Inadequate facilities, limited equipment, insufficient funding, and occasional indiscipline can undermine programmes. Some schools lack trained physical education instructors or structured year round training plans.
To strengthen sports education, sustained investment is required in infrastructure, coaching capacity, and safety standards. Clear disciplinary frameworks must guide competitions to prevent violence or rivalry from escalating. Partnerships with local sports associations and alumni can also enhance resource mobilization.
Conclusion
Sports in Ghana’s senior high schoolsextend far beyond competition. They shape health, character, leadership, unity, and opportunity. When properly managed within the educational framework of the Ghana Education Service, sports become a powerful instrument for national development.
A balanced secondary education in Ghana must therefore continue to treat sports not as an extracurricular luxury, but as a fundamental pillar of student formation.
Ferdinand | Education Ghana | February 22 | JAMB Clarifies: Hijab Removal Not Required During UTME Registration
JAMB has clarified that female candidates are not required to remove their hijabs during UTME registration, reaffirming its commitment to religious freedom and non-discrimination.
The has clarified that female candidates are not required to remove their hijabs during registration for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.
The clarification follows public concerns and reports suggesting that some candidates may have been asked to remove their religious coverings during biometric capture and documentation processes.
JAMB Reaffirms Respect for Religious Rights
In a statement addressing the matter, the examination body emphasised that its guidelines do not mandate the removal of hijabs for registration purposes. It reiterated its commitment to upholding constitutional rights, including freedom of religion.
According to JAMB, registration procedures are designed to verify the identity of candidates without infringing on their religious beliefs. Officials noted that centres have been directed to adhere strictly to approved protocols.
Registration Guidelines and Compliance
The Board explained that biometric data collectionand photograph capture can be conducted without compelling candidates to remove their hijabs, provided facial features required for identification remain visible.
It further urged accredited Computer-Based Test centres to ensure that staff members are properly trained and comply with official instructions to prevent misinformation or improper conduct.
Public Reaction and Assurance
The issue had sparked discussions among stakeholders in Nigeria’s education sector, particularly among parents and advocacy groups concerned about religious accommodation in public examinations.
JAMB’s clarification is expected to reassure candidates preparing for the UTME and reinforce confidence in the integrity of the registration process.
An annual inter-school sports festival intended to promote unity and celebrate student talent ended in disorder after clashes broke out between students of Obrachire Senior High Technical School and Swedru School of Business.
The incident, which occurred during the sporting event, resulted in injuries to some students. Videos circulating on social media have since drawn public concern and calls for swift action.
Director-General of GES Orders Investigation
According to Hon. Gizella Tetteh-Agbotui, Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya West, the Director-General of the has engaged the relevant school authorities and directed that a full investigation be conducted into the matter.
She assured parents, students, and the general public that the situation is being treated with urgency and seriousness.
Stakeholder Engagement Underway
Hon. Tetteh-Agbotui disclosed that she has held discussions with the District Chief Executive of Awutu Senya West, the District Education Office, the headmistress of Obrachire Senior High Technical School, and respected community elders.
She also engaged her parliamentary colleague, , to deliberate on measures to prevent a recurrence.
The MP described the incident as unfortunate, noting that sporting activities in schools are meant to build camaraderie, discipline, and healthy competition rather than fuel rivalry.
MP to Visit School Amid Infrastructure Expansion
Hon. Tetteh-Agbotui indicated that she will visit Obrachire Senior High Technical School during a scheduled sod-cutting ceremony for the construction of two new dormitory blocks. The project is expected to ease accommodation pressure and improve student welfare.
During the visit, she plans to meet with staff and students to reaffirm ongoing efforts to ensure safety and restore calm on campus.
Call for Calm
Authorities have urged students and community members to remain calm while investigations proceed. Further details are expected once the Ghana Education Service concludes its review.
Ferdinand | Education Ghana | February 22 | 5 Critical Steps to Take Immediately After Buying Land in Ghana
Buying land in Ghana is only the beginning. Discover five critical legal and administrative steps every landowner must take immediately after purchase to avoid disputes and secure ownership.
You have paid for the land. You have collected the documents. You have taken photographs on your new property.
Yet ownership does not end there.
Across , many land disputes arise not because people failed to purchase land, but because they neglected the legal and administrative steps that must follow payment. Here are five essential actions every landowner should take without delay.
1. Execute a Deed of Assignment
After payment, ensure that a properly drafted Deed of Assignment is prepared and signed.
This document formally transfers ownership from the seller to you. It must be executed by the rightful landowner or an authorised representative and witnessed appropriately.
Without a valid Deed of Assignment, defending your claim in court can be difficult.
Engage a qualified lawyer to prepare or review the document. Avoid informal agreements, handwritten undertakings, or undocumented transfers.
2. Register the Land with the
Registration is not optional.
Your deed must be submitted to the for stamping and formal registration. Registration creates a public record of your ownership and strengthens your legal protection.
Unregistered interests are vulnerable to competing claims. Many buyers lose property simply because they delayed this step.
Prompt registration is one of the strongest safeguards against land litigation.
3. Conduct an Independent Survey
Do not rely solely on the seller’s survey plan.
Hire a licensed surveyor to independently verify the land’s boundaries and coordinates. This helps confirm:
The actual size matches what you paid for There is no encroachment The coordinates align with official records
Boundary disputes are among the most common causes of land litigation in Ghana. Confirming boundaries early can prevent costly legal battles later.
4. Fence or Clearly Demarcate the Property
Vacant land often attracts encroachers.
Even if construction is not immediate, fence the land or at least install boundary pillars and visible warning signage. This signals active ownership.
Unattended plots are sometimes resold fraudulently or gradually occupied.
Physical demarcation reduces the likelihood of disputes.
5. Secure and Digitise All Documents
Keep original documents in a secure location.
Scan copies and store them digitally. Maintain backups in secure cloud storage and external drives. Land documentation can become crucial decades later during resale, inheritance processes, or legal proceedings.
Avoid the risk of searching for missing documents years after purchase.
Final Advice
Buying land in Ghana is only the first stage. Protecting your investment requires deliberate legal action and careful documentation.
Register promptly. Verify boundaries. Secure the property physically. Preserve your records.
Approach land ownership as a long-term investment, not a casual transaction.
Ferdinand | Education Ghana | February 22 | UK Students Develop Condom That Changes Colour to Detect STIs
A team of UK students has developed a prototype condom embedded with antibodies that change colour upon detecting certain sexually transmitted infections, raising discussions on innovation in sexual health technology.
A group of students in the United Kingdom has reportedly developed a prototype condom capable of changing colour when it detects specific sexually transmitted infections.
The innovation, which is still at the conceptual and prototype stage, integrates antibodies into the condom material. These antibodies are designed to react to pathogens associated with selected sexually transmitted infections, triggering a visible colour change.
How the Innovation Works
According to available details, the condom changes colour based on the infection detected:
Green indicates chlamydia
Yellow signals herpes
Purple represents human papillomavirus
Blue suggests syphilis
The goal of the invention is to provide immediate visual feedback that may prompt users to seek medical attention for confirmation and treatment.
STI Burden and Public Health Context
Sexually transmitted infections remain a major global health concern. The World Health Organization estimates that millions of new STI cases occur worldwide each year, with many going undiagnosed due to stigma, limited access to testing, and lack of awareness.
Health professionals stress that while technological innovations in prevention and detection are welcome, proper diagnosis must still be conducted through laboratory testing in accredited health facilities.
Regulatory and Clinical Considerations
Medical experts caution that any product claiming to detect infections would require rigorous scientific validation, clinical trials, and regulatory approval before it can be approved for commercial distribution.
At this stage, the colour-changing condom remains a prototype concept and has not been officially approved for public use.
If successfully developed and certified, such a product could complement existing sexual health education and testing programmes by encouraging early medical consultation.
Ferdinand | Education Ghana | February 22 | Ghanata SHS Bursar Arrested Over Alleged Diversion of Student Food Supplies
The bursar of Ghanata SHS, Lamisi Sarah, has been arrested following allegations of diverting food supplies meant for students. The case has been handed over to the police for investigation.
The bursar of Ghanata Senior High School in the Shai-Osudoku Constituency has been arrested over allegations of diverting food supplies intended for students.
The suspect, identified as Lamisi Sarah, was apprehended after what authorities describe as credible reports of food provisions being redirected from their intended purpose of supporting student feeding and welfare.
Minister Confirms Arrest
The Member of Parliament for Shai-Osudoku and Greater Accra Regional Minister, , confirmed the development.
According to her, complaints received in recent weeks suggested that portions of food items supplied to the school were being diverted. She described the allegations as disturbing, noting that such actions undermine public trust and directly affect the well-being of students who depend on the supplies for proper nourishment.
She indicated that upon receiving the reports, she alerted the constituency’s National Security apparatus to conduct a discreet investigation into the matter.
Investigation and Apprehension
The minister disclosed that during her visit to the constituency on Tuesday, February 17, the alleged diversion was confirmed, leading to the arrest of the bursar.
She further directed that the suspect be handed over to the Police to allow due process under the law.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing to establish the full facts of the case and determine whether additional persons may be implicated.
Concern Over Student Welfare
The alleged diversion of food supplies has raised concerns about accountability in the management of resources allocated to public senior high schools.Food provisions form a central part of the government’s commitment to ensuring that students receive adequate nutrition to support teaching and learning.
Education stakeholdersare expected to monitor the outcome of the investigation closely as law enforcement agencies proceed with the case.
