Bolgatanga Technical Institute Shut Down Indefinitely After Violent Student Protest

Upper East, Ghana - The Bolgatanga Technical Institute (BOTECH) in Ghana's Upper East Region was temporarily shut down following a violent protest by students that resulted in the destruction of school property. The incident occurred when some students, reportedly unhappy with the school's management, went on a rampage, pelting teachers with stones and destroying seven vehicles and several motorbikes belonging to staff members.

The protest began on a Monday morning when final-year students, who were taking part in the West Africa Secondary School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), and second-year students clashed with teachers. The situation escalated quickly, with students blockading the main entrance to the school and the Bolgatanga-Navrongo road, preventing motorists and other road users from passing through. The police were called in to restore order, but the students resisted, pelting them with stones and damaging a riot control van.

The Upper East Regional Minister, Stephen Yakubu, who also serves as the Chair of the Regional Security Council (REGSEC), announced the decision to temporarily close the school to protect lives and property. He emphasized that the students' actions were unacceptable and that they would be held accountable for the damages caused. The minister assured that the government would assess the damage and that the students would be responsible for paying for the repairs.

The Ghana Police Service and the military were deployed to the school to restore order and prevent further destruction. The security personnel patrolled the school compound, and all students were asked to vacate the premises for their safety.

The school's principal, Zachary Yorose, stated that an investigation would be conducted to determine the causes of the protest and to identify those responsible. Four students and two teachers were taken into custody by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) for their alleged involvement in examination malpractice, which may have triggered the protest.

The Regional Minister assured that the school would be reopened once the situation was under control. However, the decision on when to reopen the school would depend on the Ghana Education Service (GES). The GES would assess the situation and determine when it would be safe for the students to return.

Source – GNA