Deputy Education Minister Dr. Clement Abas Apaak has warned teachers against sexual abuse and misconduct in schools, urging them to uphold professional boundaries and report wrongdoing to protect students.
He said allegations of sexual abuse involving teachers must be treated seriously, with victims given the necessary protection and support.
Addressing the 60th anniversary celebration of St. Martin’s Senior High School at Adoagyiri-Nsawam on Saturday, November 7, 2026, on behalf of the Chief Staff at the Presidency, Dr. Julius Debrah, Dr. Apaak reminded teachers that they occupied positions of trust and had a responsibility to safeguard the welfare of students placed in their care.
“Every such allegation is serious. Every victim deserves to be heard, protected and supported,” he said.
He acknowledged the commitment of the majority of teachers but cautioned that those who abused their positions would not be allowed to undermine the profession.
“The overwhelming majority of you honour that trust, and we thank you.
“But those who betray it do not deserve the name teacher,” he stated.
Dr. Apaak urged teachers to behave responsibly, maintain appropriate boundaries with students and report any misconduct they witnessed.
“Report any misconduct you witness. Silence protects the abuser, not the child,” he cautioned.
He also encouraged students to speak up whenever they experienced or witnessed inappropriate behaviour, assuring them that their concerns would be taken seriously.
“To students: speak up. You will be believed and you will be protected,” he said.
The Deputy Minister said the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service (GES) would continue to enforce the teachers’ code of conduct and sanction those who breached its provisions.
“The Ministry and the Ghana Education Service will continue to enforce the code of conduct and to hold those who breach it to account,” he added.
He stressed that schools must remain safe environments where children could pursue their education without fear of abuse.
His remarks formed part of his address at the 60th anniversary celebration of St. Martin’s SHS, held under the theme, “Six Decades of Excellence: Celebrating Legacy and Empowering 21st Century Learners”.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana