Government has ordered for the evacuation of students from conflict-prone areas
The Educate Africa Institute (EAI) has lauded the Government of Ghana for its prompt response in evacuating students from conflict-prone areas in the wake of deadly violence linked to the protracted Bawku conflict.
In a statement issued by its Executive Director, William Boadi, the education-focused think tank expressed deep sorrow over the recent attack at Nalerigu Senior High School, which claimed the lives of two students.
Boadi extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and condemned the incident as a “senseless act of violence.”
“Schools must remain safe havens for learning and development, not targets of ethnic conflict or political violence,” the statement stressed.
The government, through the Ministry of Education and national security agencies, swiftly initiated a coordinated evacuation exercise for students in high-risk areas, including Bawku, Nalerigu, and surrounding communities.
Government spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu confirmed that the move was designed to safeguard the lives of vulnerable students and educators amid the escalating tensions.
EAI described the intervention as both timely and critical, emphasising its importance in preventing further casualties and psychological trauma among young learners.
The Institute called on traditional authorities, political leaders, civil society organizations, and local communities to unite in pursuit of sustainable peace and reconciliation in the region. “Education must not be a casualty of conflict,” Boadi asserted.
In addition, EAI urged the government and humanitarian partners to prioritize psychosocial support for affected students and staff, to facilitate their safe reintegration into academic environments once calm is restored.
“Let us protect education, preserve life, and promote peace.”