The Ghana Education Service (GES) has directed the temporary closure of all public and private schools in the Yendi Municipality to allow students and staff to participate in mourning activities for the late Overlord of the Dagbon Kingdom, Ndan Ya-Na Abukari II.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, July 14, the GES said the directive took effect from midday on Monday, July 13, and will remain in place until Thursday, July 16. Academic activities are expected to resume on Friday, July 17.
The Service explained that the decision followed consultations with the Northern Regional Director of Education, the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service, the Yendi Municipal Chief Executive, and the Gbewaa Palace.
According to the GES, the temporary closure is to enable the school community to honour the late Dagbon Overlord and show respect for the cultural traditions and heritage of the people of Dagbon during the mourning period.
The GES further urged students, teachers, and other staff members in the municipality to observe the mourning period and expressed appreciation to parents, school authorities, and stakeholders for their cooperation.
Meanwhile, Yendi Municipal Chief Executive Muniru Sogri confirmed that the closure was approved to allow residents, including members of the school community, to take part in activities marking the passing of the Dagbon King.
The Dagbon Traditional Council has also announced that the third-day Islamic prayers for the late Yaa-Naa Abukari II will be held at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi on Thursday, July 16, at 10:00 a.m.
