By Evans Worlanyo Ameamu, GNA
Keta (VR), March 04, GNA – The Country Observers Mission on Governance (COMoG) has expressed deep concern over the rising incidence of inter-school violence in the country and called for immediate action to restore discipline in schools.
The COMoG stressed that there is a need for a collaborative effort to address the issue to ensure a safe and conducive learning environment for all students.
COMoG in a press release dated February 24, signed by Eric Eli Adzie, the Executive Director, and copied to the Ghana News Agency, attributed the surge in violence to a breakdown in discipline and a lack of effective measures to prevent and address conflicts in schools and believed that revising and strengthening disciplinary codes was crucial to tackling the problem.
“We are advocating for the provision of clear national guidelines on discipline and behaviour management to equip educators with the necessary skills and knowledge to maintain order in schools. This will help prevent violence and promote a culture of respect and responsibility among students,” he said.
He emphasised that the importance of intensifying civic and moral education in schools to instill values of tolerance, empathy, and conflict resolution in students and incorporating the values into the curriculum would foster a more peaceful and respectful school environment.
Mr Adzie said that the COMoG emphasised the need for increased involvement of Parent-Teacher Associations in promoting discipline and addressing conflicts in schools and believed that parents and teachers must work together to support students to prevent such violence.
“The impact of inter-school violence on students is a major concern for COMoG. We noted that violence can lead to physical and emotional harm, as well as a decline in academic performance and overall well-being, and this needs urgent redress,” he added.
The COMoG had also called on stakeholders, including government agencies, educators, and parents, to take decisive action to protect students and restore discipline in schools while collective action could help prevent violence and create a safe and supportive learning environment.
The group also highlighted the urgent need for action to address the issue of inter-school violence and called for action from stakeholders to serve as a reminder of the importance of prioritising students’ safety and well-being.
They explained that considering the growing concern over school violence, it was essential for authorities to take concrete steps to address the issue, by implementing effective disciplinary measures, providing support for students, and promoting a culture of peace and respect.
Meanwhile the COMoG’s initiative also aimed to spark a national conversation on the importance of discipline and safety in schools, and it was hoped that their efforts would lead to positive change and a reduction in inter-school violence.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/ Christabel Addo
