The Parliamentary Committee on Human Rights has voiced serious concern over allegations of sexual abuse involving the headmaster of Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS), following reports that 19 female students have come forward.
Acknowledging recent developments in police enquiries—including the arrest of the headmaster and the submission of a case docket to the Attorney-General—the Committee urged law enforcement and state prosecutors to act without delay.
“We call on the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and the Attorney-General to expedite all necessary investigative and prosecutorial processes, including the examination of the allegations involving the other students,” the Committee stated in a press release signed by its Chairman and Kumawu Member of Parliament, Hon. Ernest Yaw Anim. “Where the available evidence establishes grounds for prosecution, the necessary action must be taken promptly and in accordance with the law, while respecting due process.”
The Committee also urged the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection to deliver immediate psychological counselling, psychosocial support, and protection against retaliation or stigma for the affected students.
“Their privacy, dignity and educational welfare must remain paramount,” the statement emphasized.
To prevent future occurrences, the parliamentary body directed the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service (GES) to reinforce confidential reporting mechanisms across schools, enabling students to report misconduct safely. Furthermore, it called for an impartial probe into any officials who may have ignored previous complaints.
“The safety of students is a fundamental human rights obligation,” the Committee noted, pledging to monitor the case closely to ensure comprehensive safeguards are established.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana