Ministry of Education to reassess school security amid rising violence

The Ministry of Education has mandated a comprehensive review of security measures in schools nationwide, subsequent to a spate of violent incidents that have claimed student lives and shaken communities.

On Thursday, August 7, 2025, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu addressed the media, describing the escalation of school violence — including incidents involving weapons — as “deeply troubling and unacceptable.”

“We must work more closely with our security agencies and law enforcement to ensure our schools remain safe spaces for learning,” he said, stressing the need for urgent and coordinated action to curb the growing trend.

Mr. Iddrisu expressed concerns regarding the prevalent employment of untrained personnel as school security staff, commonly referred to as “watchmen”.

“A reevaluation of our concept of a ‘watchman’ in educational institutions is necessary. Are we simply designating individuals as school security personnel without providing them with the requisite training in policing or basic security procedures?” he inquired.

“We need to reassess this to foster a safer school environment for students and teachers alike.” His comments come in the wake of the fatal stabbing of 15-year-old first-year student Addib Alhassan at Kinbu Senior High School on July 31.

According to reports, the incident occurred during an altercation allegedly sparked by a heated argument between classmates, though the exact cause remains unclear. Alhassan was rushed to the Adabraka Polyclinic and later transferred to the Ridge Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

This tragedy follows two separate shooting incidents — one at Nalerigu Senior High School and another at Bawku Senior High School — both involving students.

The Ministry says it will work closely with relevant stakeholders to introduce stronger, professionally trained security systems in schools across the country.