Accra:The Zonta Club of Accra has called on the Ministry of Education to take firm measures against those responsible for the sexual abuse of girls in schools and to ensure that such individuals are held accountable.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Club emphasized the need for the immediate dismissal and prosecution of any teachers found guilty of sexually abusing children, in accordance with Ghana’s child protection and criminal laws. This statement was made following reports and the suspension of Mr. Zakaria Abdulai, Headmaster of Obuasi Senior High Technical School, amid allegations of sexual misconduct. His suspension was announced by the Ministry of Education on Tuesday, October 13, pending further investigations.
Madam Adodo Abla Adih-Nuviadenu, President of the Zonta Club of Accra, asserted the importance of zero tolerance for sexual abuse in educational settings. She advocated for prompt investigations and suitable sanctions against offenders, stressing that schools should be safe and nurturing environments rather than places where students are harmed by those meant to protect them.
The Zonta Club also highlighted the necessity for immediate protection and psychosocial support for survivors of sexual abuse without subjecting them to victim-blaming or intimidation. The Club urged the establishment of regular monitoring, confidential reporting channels, and accountability mechanisms, especially for school leaders who neglect credible abuse reports.
The Club's statement concluded with a strong message, stating that the authority of educators should not serve as protection against justice. It called for concrete actions from the Ministry to show that safeguarding girls from sexual abuse in educational institutions is a top priority.