The Ministry of Education has initiated a comprehensive review of security arrangements in schools across the country, following a recent series of violent incidents that have resulted in student fatalities and left communities in distress. During a media briefing on Thursday, August 7, 2025, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu described the increase in school violence—some incidents involving weapons—as “deeply troubling and unacceptable.”
“We must collaborate more closely with our security agencies and law enforcement to ensure our schools remain safe spaces for learning,” he emphasized, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated action to address this growing trend. Minister Iddrisu also expressed concerns regarding the prevalence of untrained individuals working as school security staff, commonly referred to as “watchmen.”
“Even our concept of a ‘watchman’ in educational institutions needs to be reevaluated. Are we simply selecting anyone and designating them as school security, without any training in policing or basic security practices?” he questioned. “We need to reassess this situation to create a safer school environment for both students and teachers.”
His comments come in the wake of the fatal stabbing of 15-year-old first-year student Addib Alhassan at Kinbu Senior High School on July 31. According to reports, the incident occurred during an altercation allegedly sparked by a heated argument between classmates, though the exact cause remains unclear.
Alhassan was rushed to the Adabraka Polyclinic and later transferred to the Ridge Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. This tragedy follows two separate shooting incidents — one at Nalerigu Senior High School and another at Bawku Senior High School — both involving students.
The Ministry says it will work closely with relevant stakeholders to introduce stronger, professionally trained security systems in schools across the country.
