Don’t shield anybody – Apaak warns education directors against covering up sexual abuse cases

Deputy Education Minister Dr. Clement Apaak has issued a stern warning to education directors across the nation, urging them not to conceal allegations of sexual abuse involving teachers and headteachers. This caution comes in the wake of recent allegations against the headteacher of Obuasi Senior High Technical School, which have ignited public outcry and heightened demands for accountability within the education sector.

Speaking at the 33rd Conference of Directors of Education in Bolgatanga, Upper East Region, Dr. Apaak emphasized that any such allegations must be reported promptly and without delay. He stressed that accused individuals must be separated from students during investigations and that directors who fail to comply with these reporting protocols will be held accountable.

Dr. Apaak reiterated that the safety and well-being of students should always supersede the protection of adults accused of misconduct. He warned that concealing abuse to safeguard a school's reputation or an individual's standing within the community only endangers future victims and jeopardizes the director's own integrity.