Akropong-akuapem: Mrs. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, the Eastern Regional Minister, has urged students to uphold good moral values and discipline as they prepare to assume leadership responsibilities in the future. The Minister made the call during a visit to Okuapemman Senior High School and Mount Sinai Senior High School following recent disturbances at the institutions.
According to Ghana News Agency, the visit was prompted by incidents where students allegedly set fire to a double three-unit classroom block at Okuapemman Senior High School and the main bathroom block at the boys' dormitory of Mount Sinai Senior High School. These events were reportedly linked to longstanding tensions between the students of the two schools. The Minister was joined by a delegation that included the Eastern Regional Director of Education, Dr. Ivy Asantewa Owusu, and the Eastern Regional Police Commander, DCOP Joseph Owusu Bempah.
Addressing the students, Mrs. Awatey expressed her shock at the extent of the damage caused and emphasized that investigations were ongoing. She warned that authorities would take strict action against those found responsible. The Minister highlighted that schools are meant to groom young people for future leadership roles and that the destructive actions of some students were deeply concerning. She assured that while the damaged facilities would be rebuilt, measures would be implemented to prevent future occurrences.
Dr. Owusu echoed the Minister's sentiments, expressing disappointment over the incidents and urging an immediate end to the existing feud. She stressed the importance of students focusing on acquiring knowledge and developing good character. Commending the swift response of the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana National Fire Service, she hoped for continued collaboration to ensure school security.
DCOP Joseph Owusu Bempah condemned the disturbances, warning students against taking the law into their own hands. He emphasized the importance of students focusing on their studies and cautioned against influencing or engaging in violent acts. He also noted the presence of external influences allegedly encouraging students toward vandalism, affirming that such actions would not be tolerated.
The Ghana News Agency further reported community concerns over the disturbances, with some residents suggesting a change in the school's structure to prevent future clashes. The rivalry between the two schools is believed to have a decade-long history, with ongoing efforts to foster peace and discipline among the student bodies.