The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has stepped up measures to tighten child safety and enforce protective laws across schools nationwide.
The move follows recent allegations of sexual abuse at Obuasi Senior High Technical School, alongside growing public concerns over safety in educational institutions.
Speaking during a meeting with investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni, Gender Minister Hon. Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey disclosed that her outfit contacted Mr Awuni to gain deeper insight into the incident and determine the most effective State interventions.
According to Dr Naa Momo Lartey, prior to the session, she held discussions with the Ghana Education Service (GES) and the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service to align multi-agency responses.
“Addressing issues of this nature demands strong collaboration among institutions with complementary mandates to ensure the protection and well-being of affected students and to uphold justice,” the Minister stated.
Under the new plan, the Gender Ministry will collaborate with the GES to review and enforce institutional codes of conduct, address systemic gaps, and eliminate all forms of violence, including bullying and sexual abuse on campuses.
A technical representative from the Gender Ministry will also be attached to the GES to assist in aligning school safeguarding protocols with national child protection laws.
Beyond structural reforms, the Minister assured that the affected students and their families would receive medical screening and dedicated psychosocial support.
To enhance early reporting, the Ministry plans to display its emergency helplines prominently in schools across the country, giving victims and witnesses a direct channel to seek immediate help.
Mr Awuni commended the Minister for taking swift action on the report and welcomed the opportunity to share facts that could aid the ongoing investigations and policy reforms.
Reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment, Dr Naa Momo Lartey pledged to work alongside the Ministry of Education, law enforcement, and civil society organisations to guarantee a secure learning environment for every child in Ghana.
Notice: Members of the public are urged to report cases of child abuse, domestic violence, or welfare concerns to the Ministry’s Helpline of Hope call centre on 0800-111-222, 0800-800-800, or 0800-900-900.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
