Akropong: Mrs Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, the Eastern Regional Minister, has mandated the temporary closure of Okuapeman Senior High School and Mount Sinai Senior High School following violent clashes between students that resulted in injuries to six individuals and significant damage to school property.
According to Ghana News Agency, the disturbances erupted in the early hours of Wednesday within Akropong in the Akuapem North Municipality, where some school facilities were reportedly set ablaze. Mrs Awatey, accompanied by members of the Eastern Regional Security Council (REGSEC), announced the closures during a visit to the affected schools to assess the damage and gather information directly from the scene.
The minister expressed concern over the violent incidents, particularly at a time when the government is heavily investing in improving educational infrastructure and resources. She condemned the riots and emphasized the necessity for a thorough investigation to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the disturbances.
In her remarks, Mrs Awatey urged students to adhere to school regulations, concentrate on their education, and refrain from engaging in acts of violence and vandalism. Echoing her sentiments, the Eastern Regional Police Commander, DCOP Joseph Owusu Bempah, counseled students to act responsibly and safeguard their futures, warning that legal action would be taken against any student found participating in unlawful activities.
Rev. Richard Koranteng Afari, the Headmaster of Okuapeman SHS, confirmed that six students sustained injuries during the clashes. "Four have been treated and discharged, while two remain hospitalized," he reported.