Two major teacher unions in Ghana have expressed deep concern about what they describe as a worrying increase in violent behaviour among students in secondary schools. The unions are urging authorities to take immediate action and to finalise a student code of conduct to address the problem.
The unions say recent reports of physical assaults involving students, including attacks on teachers, other students and school security personnel, signal a serious breakdown in discipline within educational institutions. They argue that existing policies are not sufficient to protect both staff and learners from harm.
In response, the teacher organisations are calling for the Ghana Education Service and the Ministry of Education to collaborate in developing and enforcing a comprehensive student code of conduct. Such a code, they say, would clearly outline expected behaviours and sanctions for misconduct, helping to restore order in schools.
Union leaders have also warned that teachers may resort to industrial action, including a nationwide walkout, if decisive steps are not taken to protect educators and improve safety in schools. Reports on social media and discussions with education stakeholders indicate a rising threat of violence, prompting calls for better security measures and stronger disciplinary frameworks.
The teacher unions’ concerns come amid wider public debate about school discipline, including recent videos circulating online showing students engaging in physical fights at some schools. These incidents have reignited discussions among parents, educators and policymakers about how best to safeguard learning environments and prevent violence.
