NCCE Sensitizes Zuarungu SHTS Students on Sexual Harassment

The Upper East Regional Office and the Bolgatanga East District Office of the Commission have collaboratively held a sensitization programme at Zuarungu Senior High Technical School to address the rising cases of sexual harassment in educational institutions.

Speaking at the event, a programmes officer at the Regional Office, Mr. Eric Tambolah, expressed grave concern over recent reports of sexual abuse involving schoolgirls, allegedly perpetrated by teachers, male students, and other school staff. He described the trend as “disturbing and unacceptable,” stressing that such acts undermine the values of respect, protection of the vulnerable, and responsibility that society upholds.

Citing data from UNICEF and the Girls Excellence Movement, Mr. Tambolah revealed that 51.9% of female students in Ghana’s Senior High Schools reported being sexually assaulted between 2019 and 2021. He underscored the devastating impact of sexual abuse on students’ psychological well-being, academic performance, and overall development.

Students were urged to report cases of abuse to the school’s Guidance and Counselling Unit or designated safe spaces and focal persons, who have been trained to handle such matters discreetly and professionally.

The District Director of the Bolgatanga East Office, Ms. Sadia Baba Sampana, in her remarks, cautioned against associating the misconduct with male teachers en bloc, noting that some remain responsible and committed to their students’ welfare. She also encouraged cordial relationships between male and female students, while firmly discouraging harassment and intimidation by either gender.

The sensitization programme was warmly received, as students called for more of such engagements to empower them with knowledge and practical tools to navigate challenges both within and outside the classroom.