The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has issued a strong warning about the escalating violence in senior high schools, cautioning that if urgent measures are not taken, the government might be forced to deploy the military to maintain order. This comes in response to a surge in violent altercations among students, some of whom have been found wielding dangerous weapons such as cutlasses and homemade guns. GNAT believes that without decisive intervention, the situation could spiral out of control, posing a significant threat to both students and staff.
Speaking to the media, GNAT General Secretary Thomas Tanko Musah expressed deep concern over the rising indiscipline in schools, linking it to a broader erosion of respect and accountability in the country. He criticized the lack of consequences for students who engage in violent and criminal acts, warning that if this trend continues, it could lead to a complete breakdown of discipline in schools. He stressed the need for swift action to restore order and prevent further chaos.
Musah went as far as suggesting the establishment of military barracks within school campuses to curb the growing menace. “If care is not taken in the coming days, we may have to establish military barracks on our campuses so they can help maintain law and order,†he warned. He painted a grim picture of the future, stating that if students continue to arm themselves, soldiers might have to be stationed permanently in schools to counteract the threat. His remarks underscore the urgency of addressing violence in schools before drastic measures become necessary.