Teacher assault will attract severe consequences – Dr Apaak
The Ministry of Education on Friday said students who assault teachers in the discharge of their lawful duties will face severe consequences in accordance with the country’s laws.
It noted with grave concern some incidents involving assaults on teachers by students and related acts of violence recorded in some schools across the country.
A statement signed by Dr Clement Apaak, the Deputy Minister of Education, copied to the Ghana News Agency, cited the recent assault of a teacher at the Kade Senior High Technical School, in which all the perpetrators were arrested and arraigned at the Kade District Court.
The accused persons pleaded guilty to charges including conspiracy and assault. They have been convicted and fined.
The statement said the Ministry took strong exception to those developments and expressed the resolve to addressing the issue amicably.
It said the Ministry had advocated and supported action against all perpetrators of assault against teachers that had come to its attention.
“The Ministry further condemns the misconduct recorded during the Super Zonal Sports Competition in the Eastern Region, involving a reported stabbing and an alleged sexual assault,” the statement said.
“The perpetrators have been arrested and have since been in police custody, assisting with investigations. The victims are receiving medical and psychosocial support from the appropriate authorities.”
At the West Africa Senior High School, two students and one accomplice had been arraigned at the Adenta Circuit Court in connection with the assault of a teacher.
The accused persons had been remanded into police custody for six weeks pending further court proceedings.
The statement said the government remained committed to protecting teachers and taking action against those who assaulted teachers in the course of their work.
The Ministry would continue to work closely with law enforcement agencies and the judiciary to ensure justice was served and also prevent further incidents, it added.
“The Ministry is not just condemning the violent behaviors but is also taking steps to demand justice for victims through the court system.”
Source: GNA