The Ministry of Education has cautioned that any attack on teachers will be met with “severe consequences” under Ghana’s laws, following a spate of violent incidents reported in schools across the country.

In a press statement dated February 19, the Ministry said it had noted “with grave concern” cases involving students assaulting teachers and other related acts of indiscipline.

“The Ministry takes strong exception to these developments and is resolved to nip this in the bud,” the statement signed by Deputy Minister Dr Clement Apaak said.

It stressed that “any individual, including students, who assaults a teacher in the lawful performance of their professional duties will face severe consequences in accordance with the laws of Ghana.”

Citing a recent case in Kade, the Ministry disclosed that students who assaulted a tutor were arrested and prosecuted.

“The accused persons pleaded guilty to charges including conspiracy and assault. They have been convicted and fined,” the statement confirmed, describing the outcome as a clear signal that the law will take its course.

The Ministry also condemned incidents during the Super Zonal Sports Competition in the Eastern Region, which reportedly involved a stabbing and an alleged sexual assault.

According to the statement, “The perpetrators have been arrested and have since been in police custody assisting with investigations,” while victims are receiving medical and psychosocial support.

In another case, two students and an accomplice have been arraigned for allegedly assaulting a teacher and have been remanded into police custody for six weeks pending further proceedings.

At the 54th Delegates Conference of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), President John Mahama reaffirmed the government’s zero-tolerance stance on attacks against teachers.

The Ministry noted that the President “reaffirmed that no attack on teachers will be tolerated under any circumstance” and pledged to ensure perpetrators are dealt with in accordance with the law.

The Ministry added that it remains committed to working with law enforcement agencies and the judiciary to demand justice for victims and safeguard the safety of teachers nationwide.