The Ghana Education Service (GES) has condemned two serious incidents of alleged criminal misconduct involving students during the recently concluded Super Zonal Sports Competition held in the Eastern Region from 4 to 6 February, 2026.

In a press release issued on Wednesday, February 11, the Service confirmed receiving reports of a stabbing and an alleged gang rape linked to the event.

It described the incidents as deeply troubling and entirely inconsistent with the values and standards of the education system.

“Management condemns these acts in the strongest terms and emphasises that such behaviour has no place within the Ghana Education Service,” the statement said.

The annual inter-school sports competition is intended to promote talent development, discipline, teamwork and unity among students.

GES stressed that it is unacceptable for such activities to be associated with violence, sexual abuse or any form of criminal conduct.

According to preliminary reports, a student of Koforidua Senior High Technical School was stabbed approximately 200 metres from the competition venue after he had reportedly left the grounds to have lunch with a friend. The victim was allegedly attacked by students of New Juaben Senior High School.

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The injured student received medical attention and has since been discharged from hospital.

GES confirmed that one suspect in connection with the stabbing has been arrested and is assisting the police with investigations.

In a separate incident, a female student of Osino Senior High School was allegedly raped in a bush at some distance from the competition grounds.

Two students have been arrested in connection with the alleged rape and are currently in police custody, assisting with investigations.

A third suspect, described as the alleged ringleader and an old student at Koforidua Senior High Technical School, is said to be on the run.

The victim received medical treatment and has since been discharged from hospital. She is currently receiving counselling and psychosocial support from the Regional Guidance and Counselling Coordinator, the Head of the Girls’ Education Unit, and officers of the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU).

GES management stated that it is treating the incidents with the utmost seriousness. It pledged that all individuals found culpable would be dealt with in accordance with the GES Code of Conduct on student behaviour and due legal process.

"Management treats these incidents with utmost seriousness. In line with the Code of Conduct of the Ghana Education Service regarding student behaviour, all culprits will be taken through due process and, when found guilty, will be dealt with accordingly."

The Regional Director of Education has been directed to impose appropriate sanctions on any schools found to be culpable, in order to serve as a deterrent to others.

The Service further appealed to parents, school authorities and the general public to remain calm and cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies as investigations continue.

"Management urges all stakeholders to remain calm and cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies as investigations continue," the statement concluded.