Deputy Education Minister Dr Clement Abas Apaak has warned teachers who sexually abuse or mistreat students that they will be identified and punished, as the government widens opportunities for career progression in the profession.
Apaak issued the warning during a ceremony marking the 60th anniversary of St Martin’s Senior High School in Nsawam-Adoagyiri, in the Eastern Region.
He said recent reports of sexual misconduct in schools required decisive disciplinary action, as well as stronger safeguards for learners.
“Our teachers, I say to you with the greatest of respect, you hold a position of trust. Parents hand you their children believing that you would protect them,” he said.
Apaak acknowledged the work of the majority of teachers but said those who abused their position could not be allowed to escape accountability.
“The overwhelming majority of you teachers are trusted, and you work hard, and we say thank you. But those few who choose to betray the trust reposed in them must be identified, named, shamed and punished,” he added.
He also called on teachers to report abuse or other misconduct they encountered at school, warning that failing to speak out could allow offenders to continue.
“Report any misconduct you witness. Silence protects the abuser, not the child,” he said.
Addressing students at the event, Apaak encouraged them to report concerns and assured them that their complaints would be taken seriously.
“To my dear students, speak up, you will be believed, and you will be protected,” he said.
The headmaster of St Martin’s Senior High School, Paul A. Agbakpe, used the ceremony to ask the Ministry of Education to provide two two-storey dormitory blocks, at least 800 bunk beds and more accommodation for staff.
He said the additions were needed to help the school end the double-track system by the end of 2027.
Agbakpe said enrolment had increased significantly over the past three years, placing pressure on the school’s existing dormitory facilities. He added that providing housing for more teachers on campus would strengthen supervision during evening preparatory hours.
Earlier, Apaak monitored the three-day Teacher Promotion Aptitude Test in Accra on behalf of Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu. The exercise was held at Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (PRESEC-Legon).
More than 60,000 teachers completed the nationwide test without major incidents, Apaak said. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that promotions are processed on time.
