The Ministry of Education has directed an urgent nationwide review of security arrangements in schools following a recent surge in violent incidents that have resulted in student deaths and widespread public concern.

Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, August 7, 2025, Minister for Education Haruna Iddrisu described the rise in school-related violence, including attacks involving weapons, as "deeply troubling and unacceptable."

“We must work more closely with our security agencies and law enforcement to ensure our schools remain safe spaces for learning,” he said, stressing the need for urgent and coordinated action to curb the growing trend.

He highlighted a major gap in the current system, the use of untrained individuals, often referred to as "watchmen," to serve as school security personnel.

“Even our concept of a ‘watchman’ in educational institutions needs to be revisited. Do we just pick anyone and label them school security? With no training in policing or even basic security practices?” he questioned.
“We need to review this so we can foster a safer school environment for both students and teachers.”

The Minister’s comments follow the fatal stabbing of 15-year-old first-year student Addib Alhassan at Kinbu Senior High School on July 31. Reports indicate the incident occurred after an altercation between classmates, though the full circumstances remain under investigation. Alhassan was rushed to the Adabraka Polyclinic and later transferred to Ridge Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

This tragic event comes on the heels of two separate shooting incidents involving students—one at Nalerigu Senior High School and another at Bawku Senior High School—further heightening fears about student safety on school premises.

In response, the Ministry of Education has pledged to work with key stakeholders, including law enforcement and community leaders, to introduce a professional and robust security framework across educational institutions nationwide.

“The safety of our children is non-negotiable,” Mr. Iddrisu added. “We owe it to them to do better.”