E/R: GES Condemns Violence in Super Zonals
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has condemned the violence that characterised the just-ended super zonal sports Competition held in the Eastern Region.
The competition held from February 4-6, was marred by incidents of alleged stabbing and an gang-rape.
In a statement, the GES said, “Management condemns these acts in the strongest terms and emphasises that such behaviour has no place within the Ghana Education Service.”
It stated that inter-school sports are an important co-curricular activity aimed at nurturing talent, promoting discipline, teamwork, and unity among students.
“It is therefore unacceptable for such events, or activities connected to them, to be associated with violence, sexual abuse, or any form of criminal conduct.”
Stabbing
Preliminary reports indicate that a student of Koforidua Senior High Technical School was stabbed approximately 200 metres away from the competition venue while he had gone out to have lunch with a friend.
The victim was allegedly attacked by students of New Juaben Senior High School.
He received medical care and has since been discharged from the hospital, while one suspect was arrested and is assisting the police with investigations.
Gang Rape
Meanwhile, a female student of Osino Senior High School was allegedly raped in a bush at some distance from the competition grounds.
Two students have been arrested and are currently in police custody, assisting with investigations.
A third suspect, described as the alleged ringleader and an old student of Koforidua Senior High Technical School, is currently on the run.
The victim has received medical attention and has since been discharged from the hospital and is being provided with counselling and psychosocial support by the Regional Guidance and Counselling Coordinator, the Head of the Girls’ Education Unit, and officers of the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU).
Disciplinary Action
The GES assured the public that all culprits will be taken through due process and, when found guilty, will be dealt with accordingly.
“The Regional Director of Education has been directed to apply appropriate sanctions to the culpable schools involved, to serve as a deterrent to others who may be contemplating similar actions.”
Story by Hajara Fuseini
Click to read more: https://opemsuo.com/author/hajara-fuseini/
