The Ghana Education Service (GES) has announced the temporary closure of several senior high schools in the Upper East Region following a surge in violent attacks that tragically resulted in student fatalities, injuries, and extensive damage to school property. The affected schools include Bawku SHS, Nalerigu SHS, and Zuarungu SHS. The violence, which occurred between July 20th and 26th, 2025, significantly disrupted academic activities and caused widespread distress among students, their families, and school staff. The GES condemned the violence and expressed its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all students and staff.
In response to the crisis, the GES is collaborating with various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), regional and district directors, and school leadership to develop strategies for mitigating the impact of the closures, particularly for SHS 3 students preparing for the upcoming West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). The GES is working to establish special examination arrangements and secure examination centers to ensure that these students can complete their exams safely and fairly. Furthermore, the GES is exploring alternative learning avenues for SHS 1 and 2 students to ensure continuity of their education while their campuses remain closed for safety assessments.
The GES has prioritized the emotional well-being of students and staff affected by the violence. Counseling services are being reinforced to provide support and help individuals cope with the trauma resulting from the incidents. The GES expressed its deepest condolences to the families who lost loved ones and pledged its unwavering support to the affected school communities during this difficult time.
The Ghanaian government, through the Ministry of the Interior, has been instrumental in swiftly evacuating students from the affected campuses, ensuring their immediate safety. The GES is continuing to collaborate closely with security agencies to strengthen security measures on school campuses and protect both students and personnel from further harm. This coordinated effort aims to prevent future incidents and restore a sense of security within the educational environment.
The GES emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts to address the underlying issues that contributed to the violence and create a safer and more conducive learning environment. The organization calls upon all stakeholders, including community leaders, parents, and law enforcement agencies, to actively participate in fostering peace, discipline, and upholding the sanctity of educational institutions. This collaborative approach recognizes the shared responsibility of the community in ensuring the safety and well-being of students and maintaining the integrity of the education system.
The temporary closure of schools and the implementation of alternative learning arrangements are critical steps in addressing the immediate aftermath of the violence. However, the GES acknowledges the need for long-term solutions that address the root causes of the conflict and promote peaceful coexistence within the affected communities. This includes strengthening community engagement, fostering dialogue, and implementing preventative measures to mitigate the risk of future violence. The GES remains committed to working with all stakeholders to create a safe and supportive learning environment for all students in the Upper East Region. The organization believes that education is a fundamental right and is committed to providing access to quality education for all children, regardless of their circumstances.
