In the wake of increasing violence and hooliganism at inter-school sports festivals across Ghana, the Central Regional Education Directorate has taken the drastic step of banning such events for the time being.

The decision has sparked a wider debate, with many questioning the effectiveness of banning the festivals as a solution to the rising incidents of student unrest.

The President of the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), Jacob Anabah, has weighed in on the issue, urging the restoration of discipline in schools rather than imposing blanket bans on student activities.

According to Mr Anabah, the root cause of the violence is not the festivals themselves, but the failure to instil proper discipline in students.

“The issue we’re seeing at inter-school festivals is a reflection of a broken system of discipline within our schools,” Mr Anabah told Adom News.

“Inter-school competitions are not just about sports — they’re an integral part of the education system, offering students a platform to excel, learn teamwork, and grow. These events help shape the future of many young people, providing them with opportunities to succeed in life.”

He believes that the focus should not be on restricting students’ ability to compete, but rather on strengthening the structure of discipline within schools.

He argues that with proper enforcement of rules and regulations, incidents of violence can be curbed, and students can continue to benefit from the valuable life lessons that inter-school competitions provide.

“When discipline is properly enforced, the tendency for hooliganism and violence diminishes,” Anabah said. “It’s about addressing the underlying issues in the school system and ensuring that students learn respect for themselves and others.”

The call from NAGRAT comes as the country grapples with rising tension between safety concerns and the desire to preserve the rich tradition of inter-school sports.

While some believe that banning the events is necessary for the safety of students and staff, Mr. Anabah’s stance underscores the importance of focusing on the broader educational framework to resolve the problem.