A devastating wave of violence has shaken the Nkwanta Senior High School in the Oti Region, forcing its abrupt closure and sparking national concern over the safety of students in conflict-affected communities.
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has ordered the immediate shutdown of the school following the tragic death of a male student who was fatally struck by a stray bullet while sitting in his classroom during mock examinations on Friday, June 27. The incident occurred just a day after two female students were wounded by gunfire while on their way to school.
The back-to-back attacks have brought the growing insecurity in Nkwanta into sharp focus, highlighting the vulnerability of educational institutions in areas plagued by tribal and communal tensions.
“This should never happen to a child, let alone inside a classroom,” a visibly shaken parent told reporters. “We send our children to school to learn, not to die.”
Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) John Nchor, the Public Affairs Officer for the Oti Regional Police Command, confirmed that eight individuals have been arrested in connection with the violence. He said law enforcement has since deployed enhanced security measures including patrols and checkpoints to stabilise the area.
“As I am talking, calm has been restored in Nkwanta following the recent violent incident. Swift and decisive actions have been taken to maintain law and order,” DSP Nchor stated.
The closure of Nkwanta SHS has drawn attention to the broader issue of how violence is disrupting education and putting the lives of students and teachers at risk. Education experts, civil society groups, and community leaders are calling on the government to prioritise conflict resolution and invest in long-term security for schools situated in volatile regions.
“There can be no education without peace,” said an official from the Ghana National Education Campaign Coalition. “The government must act swiftly to ensure our schools remain safe havens for learning—not battlegrounds.”
As investigations continue and security forces work to prevent further unrest, many residents of Nkwanta are pleading for dialogue, reconciliation, and sustainable peacebuilding to end the cycle of violence that is robbing children of their right to education and safety.
