Adansi group petitions chief to reopen Obuasi SHTS, reinstate 38 teachers

The Concerned Citizens of Adansi have taken their case to the Adansihene, pleading for the swift reopening of Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS). This institution has lain dormant for months following campus disturbances. The school was ordered closed after students allegedly attacked their headmaster, Zakaria Abdulai, over sexual abuse accusations against female students.

Abdulai is now under investigation following a recent JoyNews report that further probed claims of sexual encounters with approximately 19 girls. However, these allegations have not been proven, and investigations are still ongoing.

As if the school’s closure wasn’t disruptive enough, Form Two and Form Three students are left without a clear timetable for their return to the classroom. This is especially problematic for Form Three students who are in the process of preparing for their West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). The loss of crucial instructional time is placing their academic prospects in jeopardy.

Not only are parents and guardians becoming increasingly anxious about their children’s education, but the group has also raised concerns about the reported dismissal of 38 teachers. This development has raised questions about administrative accountability, procedural fairness, and the protection of educators who speak out about problems within their institution.

The group acknowledges that the allegations require verification but is deeply worried that the reported dismissals may create an impression of victimization and detract from the substantive issues that demand investigation.

The Concerned Citizens of Adansi are calling for traditional authorities to intervene and secure the school’s reopening. They are also demanding an impartial investigation into the allegations against Abdulai and the circumstances surrounding the teachers’ reported transfers. Resolving the issues is seen as paramount to protecting students' education, while ensuring that allegations and concerns raised by staff are handled fairly.