The Africa Centre for Health Law, Ethics and Patient Safety (ACHLEPS) has called for a survivor-centred, trauma-informed and independent response to allegations of rape, sexual assault and sexual misconduct involving female students and the interdicted headmaster of Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS).
In a press release signed by Divine K. Akpalu (ESQ), Executive Director and Legal Lead, and Dr. Elom Otchi (PhD), Director for Health Systems and Policy, ACHLEPS said it has noted with deep concern public reports on the matter, while acknowledging government’s confirmation that 19 students have been identified for welfare support.
The Centre also noted that police investigations are ongoing, with a reported rape case docket forwarded to the Attorney-General’s Office for advice, stressing that the issues remain allegations unless and until established through lawful processes.
According to ACHLEPS, as an organisation committed to the protection of health, human rights and dignity, schools must remain safe spaces for learning, growth and holistic development.
The group described sexual abuse in educational settings as a grave violation of the rights of children and young people, with serious health, safety, legal and ethical implications.
The release, themed “Protect the students. Preserve dignity. Pursue justice. Fix the system,” outlined six key demands for action:
1. Protect and support affected students: Ensure immediate, confidential, survivor-centred medical care, STI/HIV and pregnancy assessment where clinically indicated, mental-health and psychosocial support, continuity of education, and strict privacy and informed consent.
2. Ensure safety and prevent further harm: Protect students and witnesses from intimidation or retaliation; establish confidential reporting channels; restrict unsupervised access to staff residences and strengthen oversight of school environments.
3. Guarantee a prompt, impartial and transparent investigation: Preserve evidence, protect witnesses, and ensure due process in line with Ghana’s Criminal Offences Act, including offences of rape, defilement and other sexual offences.
4. Uphold ethical standards and accountability: Educational institutions must maintain professional boundaries, respect student dignity and privacy, and act decisively on complaints. Survivor privacy must never be sacrificed for publicity.
5. Implement systemic reforms: Conduct an independent safeguarding review of the school and relevant education structures, provide mandatory safeguarding training, and establish clear staff-student boundary rules across all schools.
6. Learn and strengthen: Use this moment to undertake a national audit of safeguarding readiness in secondary schools and implement evidence-based measures to prevent recurrence.
ACHLEPS said it stands ready to provide technical support, including guidance on survivor-centred care, safeguarding policies, legal and ethical frameworks, and institutional strengthening for safer schools.
By Robert Dela Mawuenyegah // Newswatchgh.com
