Education ministry mourns Nkwanta SHS students killed in tribal clashes

The Ministry of Education has expressed profound sorrow following the tragic deaths of three students at Nkwanta Senior High School in the Oti Region, amid renewed tribal violence in the area.

In a statement, the Ministry confirmed that two female day students were fatally shot on Thursday, June 26, while a male student was killed the following day by a stray bullet during classes.

All three incidents occurred on school grounds, which became entangled in the escalating communal unrest.

“The Ministry extends heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, the student body, staff of Nkwanta SHS, and all affected by these senseless and heartbreaking acts of violence,” the statement said.

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu personally conveyed his sympathies to the bereaved families and praised the Ghana Education Service (GES) and the Acting Regional Director of Education for their swift response in protecting lives.

As part of immediate safety measures, Nkwanta SHS was temporarily closed, and police escorts were arranged to ensure students could return home safely.

The Minister has also directed the GES to maintain close oversight of the situation and to take every necessary step to safeguard students, staff, and school infrastructure in the region.

“We remain hopeful for a speedy and peaceful resolution to the conflict so that students can resume learning in a secure environment,” the Ministry added.

The tragic events have intensified national concern over the vulnerability of schools in conflict-prone areas and have sparked renewed calls for lasting peace and stability in the Oti Region.