Education Ministry Launches Probe into Lawra SHS Canoe Accident

Jun 16, 2025 - 00:04

Lawra, Upper East Region - 16 June, 2025 - The Ministry of Education has launched an immediate investigation into the tragic canoe accident that claimed the lives of seven students from Lawra Senior High School in the Upper West Region. The incident occurred when students from the school's cadet corps attempted to cross the Black Volta River near Dikpe into Burkina Faso during a routine morning jogging session.

According to reports, a canoe carrying 10 students capsized midstream, resulting in the deaths of five girls and two boys. Three students were rescued, and a joint rescue team comprising personnel from NADMO, the Ghana Police Service, and the Ghana Education Service retrieved the bodies of the deceased.

Deputy Minister of Education, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, in a statement, conveyed the Ministry's deep sorrow over the incident and assured the public of urgent steps being taken to prevent future occurrences. The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has instructed the Director General of the Ghana Education Service to convene an urgent meeting with relevant stakeholders to discuss the incident and recommend next steps.

The Ministry has expressed condolences to the bereaved families and emphasized its commitment to student safety and security. It awaits a full report from the Ghana Police Service to guide next steps. The incident has sent shockwaves through the school community, and the Ministry's investigation aims to provide answers and prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The Ministry's statement concluded by sharing in the grief of the affected families and the entire school community, offering thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

“We share in the grief of the affected families and the entire school community. Our thoughts and prayers are with them in this extremely difficult time.''

Read the statement from the Education Ministry below;