The Ghana Education Service (GES) has taken swift action against Solomon Sarpong Bagmae, the Headmaster of Nkwanta Senior High School, ordering his immediate removal from his position. This decision follows allegations that Mr. Bagmae conducted an unauthorized media interview on August 4, 2025, during which he reportedly appealed for public assistance to support the feeding of students participating in the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). The GES deemed this action inappropriate and a breach of established protocols, asserting that it undermined the proper channels for addressing such concerns. To ensure a thorough and impartial investigation into the matter, the GES directed Mr. Bagmae to step aside from his duties, effectively suspending him pending the outcome of the inquiry.
The directive issued by Acting Oti Regional Director of Education, Mrs. Irene Jacqueline Bra, mandates Mr. Bagmae to immediately cease all official responsibilities, surrender all school property and administrative duties to the Regional Director, and refrain from making any further public statements regarding the issue. The GES emphasized the seriousness of the allegations, highlighting the need for a comprehensive investigation to ascertain the facts and determine the appropriate course of action. This decisive step reflects the GES’s commitment to upholding established procedures and ensuring accountability within the educational system.
The core issue revolves around Mr. Bagmae’s alleged appeal for public support for student feeding during the WASSCE. The GES contends that this action was unauthorized and contravened established procedures. Their statement explicitly criticizes Mr. Bagmae for circumventing the appropriate channels for addressing such concerns. They maintain that a robust system is already in place to ensure the adequate provision of food for students, negating the need for public appeals. The GES views this as a serious breach of protocol, potentially undermining public trust in the existing support system.
Furthermore, the GES vehemently refuted Mr. Bagmae’s claims regarding a sudden surge in student numbers leading to food shortages, categorizing these allegations as entirely fabricated. They emphasized that the relocation of students was a carefully planned and controlled process, with student numbers accurately accounted for. The existing support system, they asserted, was designed to accommodate these known numbers, thereby rendering claims of being overwhelmed by the increased student population completely baseless. The GES characterized Mr. Bagmae’s statements as a deliberate attempt to misrepresent the situation and create unnecessary public anxiety.
The GES expressed deep concern over Mr. Bagmae’s actions, particularly given his position as a key figure within the consultative process. They viewed his public appeal as an attempt to portray a false narrative of government inaction and to incite public panic. This, they argued, was a grave misstep, especially considering his role and responsibilities within the education system. The GES emphasized the importance of maintaining public trust and ensuring accurate information dissemination, particularly during critical periods like national examinations.
Pending the conclusion of the investigation, the GES has refrained from further comment. They have indicated that additional directives will be communicated once the investigation is complete and a determination has been made based on the findings. This suggests that further disciplinary action may be taken against Mr. Bagmae if the allegations are substantiated. The GES has made it clear that they take such matters seriously and will uphold the integrity of the education system by addressing any breaches of protocol and ensuring accountability among its personnel.
