GES Suspends Zonal Athletics in Central Region After Violent Disturbances
The Ghana Education Service has ordered the immediate suspension of all zonal athletics competitions involving Senior High Schools and Senior High Technical Schools in the Central Region following violent disturbances at a recent sporting event.
In a directive dated February 22 and issued by the Central Regional Education Directorate, the Service said it had received credible reports of serious clashes among students during zonal athletics activities. The incidents, according to the statement, raised significant concerns about the safety of students, staff and spectators.
The letter, signed by Central Regional Director of Education Juliette Dubie Otami, stated that the disturbances undermined the principles of discipline, teamwork and mutual respect that school sports are meant to promote. Management explained that the temporary suspension is intended to safeguard lives, restore order and protect the integrity of inter school competitions while consultations are held with relevant stakeholders.
Heads of second cycle institutions have been instructed to halt all planned or scheduled zonal athletics events with immediate effect, inform students and staff accordingly, and ensure strict compliance. The suspension remains in force until further notice.
The decision follows violence that disrupted the District Schools Athletics Games held in Agona Swedru on February 19. The matter is currently under investigation by the Ghana Police Service.
What began as an athletics competition reportedly escalated into chaos after tensions flared between students of Obrachire Senior High Technical School and Swedru School of Business, widely known as SWESBUS. During the confrontation, a student from Obrachire was allegedly assaulted by a group of students and struck with sticks and stones before bystanders intervened. The injured student was later taken to a health facility for treatment.
Video footage of the incident circulated on social media, prompting a response from the police. In a statement shared on its official Facebook page, the Ghana Police Service confirmed it had commenced investigations into the viral video and strongly condemned the violence, assuring the public that all individuals found responsible would be brought to justice.
The incident has sparked concern among education stakeholders and residents in the region, with renewed calls for enhanced security and closer supervision at inter school sporting events. Authorities say further updates will be provided as investigations continue.
