The National Council of Parent-Teacher Associations (NCPTAs) has called for an overhaul of security arrangements in Ghanaian schools following the alleged sexual abuse of a 14-year-old special needs student at Bolgatanga Girls’ Senior High School (BOGISS).
In a statement dated August 20, 2026, the NCPTAs commended the Ministry of Education for its swift response to the incident, including the directive for an investigation and the provision of medical and psychosocial support to the student.
The Council also welcomed the Ghana Education Service’s interdiction of the two watchmen allegedly linked to the incident and commended the Upper East Regional Police Command for arresting the suspects and committing them to prosecution.
However, the NCPTAs said the case exposes the need for stronger recruitment and monitoring systems for security personnel working in schools.
It expressed particular concern that one of the suspects is 72 years old, questioning the suitability of employing a person beyond retirement age in a role requiring vigilance and sound judgment.
“Our schools must not be a dumping ground for public service retirees,” the Council stated.
The NCPTAs has therefore called on the GES to conduct a nationwide vetting and audit of security personnel and other non-teaching staff in schools, covering their age, background and fitness for duty.
It also wants security personnel to receive mandatory child protection and safeguarding training, including training on dealing with students with special educational needs.
The Council further urged the GES to review its recruitment practices and ensure that school security personnel are properly vetted and trained.
On the BOGISS case itself, the NCPTAs called for the prosecution of the suspects without delay, stressing that the matter goes beyond internal disciplinary action.
“We insist: No plea bargains. No delays. Justice must be seen to be done,” it said.
The Council urged schools and Parent-Teacher Associations to strengthen safeguarding measures, including monitored access points, strict visitor logs and safer arrangements for students.
It said the welfare and protection of children must remain the priority of every institution entrusted with their care.
