The Ghana Education Service (GES) has ordered the temporary closure of schools in the Upper East Region following a series of violent episodes.
Institutions such as Bawku SHS, Nalerigu SHS, and Zuarungu SHS were among those affected, with incidents resulting in student fatalities, multiple injuries, and extensive damage to property.
The violent outbreaks, which occurred between July 20 and 26, severely interrupted academic progress and left students, staff, and families shaken.
In an official statement released Tuesday, July 29, 2025, GES labeled the events as “tragic” and issued a strong condemnation of the attacks against the educational institutions.
“GES expresses its sincerest condolences to the bereaved families and affected school communities. We stand with them in this difficult moment and assure them of our full support,” part of the statement read.
To safeguard lives and property, GES has closed all affected schools while conducting evaluations and rolling out emergency protocols.
GES is coordinating with the Ministry of Education, WAEC, and local administrators to ensure SHS 3 candidates can sit for the WASSCE under safe and equitable conditions. Plans to establish alternate exam centers are currently being considered.
“For SHS 1 and 2 students in the affected schools, the GES is exploring all viable learning avenues to ensure continuity of lessons while campuses remain closed for safety assessments. Further details on these interventions will be communicated in due course,” the GES said.
“In addition, counselling services are being strengthened for both students and staff to help them manage the trauma.”
GES further acknowledged the Ministry of the Interior’s role in evacuating students and reaffirmed its ongoing partnership with security agencies to ensure school communities remain protected.
Finally, the Service appealed to stakeholders including traditional leaders, parents, and law enforcement to work together in upholding peace, discipline, and the integrity of Ghana’s educational institutions.
Read the full statement below:
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