The Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has expressed deep concern over the increasing reports of students carrying weapons in schools, describing it as a disturbing trend that threatens the safety of both learners and teachers.
Addressing the official inauguration of the governing boards of the National Schools Inspectorate Authority (NaSIA) and the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) in Accra, the minister stressed the urgent need for a coordinated response to the growing incidents of school violence.
He urged NaSIA to intensify its inspection duties and collaborate effectively with school authorities and other stakeholders to enforce safety standards and discipline in basic and second-cycle institutions nationwide.
“The use of weapons by students is unacceptable. I expect NASIA to step up its inspections and enforce safety standards in our schools,” the minister stated, adding, “Every child and teacher deserves to feel safe in the learning environment.”
Turning to curriculum reforms, the minister charged the newly inaugurated NaCCA board to ensure that Ghana’s education system reflects the demands of the 21st century.
He placed particular emphasis on strengthening Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as key components for national transformation.
“Our curriculum must reflect the demands of the future. I urge the NaCCA board to work diligently to strengthen STEM and TVET pathways, ensuring our learners are well-equipped for the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” he said.
The newly appointed boards of NaSIA and NaCCA are expected to play a vital role in shaping the government’s broader education reform agenda by offering strategic direction and oversight to their respective institutions.