Speaking at its National Council meeting held on May 15, 2025, at the NAGRAT Lyceum in Accra, the association described the trend as a disturbing threat to the safety and well-being of teachers and students alike.
NAGRAT reported a surge in student aggression some involving machetes and firearms—that has created a hostile and unsafe learning environment. The association submitted a formal petition to the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES), detailing a number of alarming incidents, including:
The assault of Mr. Walter Yesotor Adanunyo, a teacher at Christian Methodist High School, for stopping students from cheating during the WASSCE.
An attack on Mr. Ebenezer Kateya of Accra High School, allegedly for enforcing the school’s dress code.
A student at Opoku Ware School (OKESS) found in possession of a firearm on campus.
NAGRAT strongly criticized the GES and government for what it called a “weak and lame” response to the escalating violence. The association attributed the crisis to:
The admission of underqualified BECE candidates into senior high schools, Political interference in student disciplinary processes, and Bureaucratic delays that prevent swift enforcement of sanctions.
The union has issued an ultimatum to the GES, demanding clear and decisive actions to protect teachers by May 31, 2025. Should the GES fail to act, NAGRAT has vowed to implement its own safety measures starting June 1, 2025.
“The safety of our members is non-negotiable. If the authorities will not act, we will,” NAGRAT warned.
The association emphasized that maintaining discipline and order is essential for academic success and must not be undermined by fear or violence in the classroom.
