The Ministry of Education in Ghana has expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences to the families of seven students from Lawra Senior High School who tragically lost their lives in a canoe accident on the Black Volta River. The incident, which occurred on Saturday, June 15, 2024, involved ten members of the school’s cadet corps who were reportedly on a morning jogging exercise. During the exercise, they attempted to cross the river near Dikpe in a canoe, which capsized midstream, resulting in the drowning of seven students, while three others were rescued.
The Ministry, in a statement signed by Deputy Minister for Education, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, described the incident as an “unexpected and heartbreaking” tragedy. The Ministry conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and the entire school community on behalf of Minister Haruna Iddrisu and the government. The statement emphasized the shared grief and offered prayers and support during this difficult time. The Ministry confirmed that the bodies of the seven deceased students, comprising five girls and two boys, were recovered by a collaborative effort involving the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), the Ghana Police Service, and the Ghana Education Service.
Minister Iddrisu promptly directed the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service to convene a meeting with the Regional and District Directors of Education, as well as the headmaster of Lawra Senior High School, to gather a comprehensive briefing on the incident. The Ministry is awaiting a full report from the Ghana Police Service to gain a complete understanding of the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. The Ministry assured the public of its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all students in Ghana’s educational institutions.
The tragic loss of these young lives has undoubtedly cast a somber shadow over the Lawra Senior High School community and the nation as a whole. The incident highlights the potential risks associated with extracurricular activities, especially those involving water bodies, and underscores the need for stringent safety measures to be in place. The Ministry of Education’s response signifies its commitment to thoroughly investigate the incident and take appropriate steps to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The collaboration between NADMO, the Ghana Police Service, and the Ghana Education Service in the recovery efforts demonstrates the importance of inter-agency cooperation in times of crisis. The directive from Minister Iddrisu to gather a comprehensive briefing reflects the government’s commitment to accountability and transparency in addressing this tragedy. The Ministry’s assurance to the public reinforces its dedication to safeguarding the well-being of students and ensuring a safe learning environment.
This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the profound impact such tragedies have on families, communities, and the nation. The Ministry of Education’s swift response, coupled with its commitment to investigate and implement preventive measures, signifies its determination to learn from this devastating event and work towards ensuring the safety and security of all students in Ghana. The nation mourns the loss of these young lives and stands in solidarity with the bereaved families during this period of immense grief.
