Informed Teachers Network Calls for Action Against Bullying in Akwatia Technical Institute
The Informed Teachers Network (ITN) has issued a press release condemning the recent incident of Bullying (corporal punishment) at the Akwatia Technical Institute captured in a viral video. The network labeled the incident as bullying and unacceptable, stating that the school is not a slave den.
ITN emphasized that the fact that a student is senior or enrolled in the school before others does not give them the right to engage in corporal punishment against their fellow students. The Ghana Education Service (GES) has banned corporal punishment in schools, and as such, teachers and students in positions of authority are not expected to engage in such acts.
The network called on the authorities of the Akwatia Technical Institute to take swift action to deal with the culprits captured in the viral video. ITN also called on the GES and other key stakeholders to ensure that the perpetrators are made to face the music to serve as a deterrent to others.
Corporal punishment has long been a contentious issue in Ghana, with many people arguing that it is a violation of the rights of the child and should be banned. While the GES has banned corporal punishment in schools, incidents of physical abuse against students still occur, and more needs to be done to ensure that students are protected from such abuses.
ITN has urged all stakeholders in the education sector to come together to find a way to end the practice of corporal punishment in schools and create a safe and supportive environment for students to learn and grow. The education of our children should always come first, and we should work together to ensure that our schools are free from violence and abuse.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Informed Teachers Network (ITN) Condemns Corporal Punishment in Schools
26/02/2023
Informed Teachers Network (ITN), a leading organization dedicated to promoting ethical and effective teaching practices, condemns the recent incident of corporal punishment captured in a viral video at Akwatia Technical Institute.
For the avoidance of doubt, a video circulating of social media captures some senior high school students (seniors) alleged to be students of Akwatia Technical Institute brutally lashing a colleague (junior on his knees) with belt and finally slapping him from behind.
ITN is deeply concerned about the well-being of students in schools and strongly believes that every child has the right to a safe and nurturing learning environment. Corporal punishment not only violates this fundamental right but also goes against the Ghana Education Service’s ban on such disciplinary actions in schools.
The use of physical force to discipline students is an outdated and ineffective approach that often results in long-term negative effects on the students’ mental and emotional well-being. Furthermore, it sets a dangerous precedent that violence is an acceptable way to solve problems, perpetuating a culture of bullying and abuse.
ITN urges the authorities of Akwatia Technical Institute to take immediate action to address the culprits involved in the incident captured in the viral video. We call on the Ghana Education Service and other key stakeholders to ensure that the perpetrators are held accountable and face the necessary consequences for their actions.
ITN recognizes the importance of providing teachers with the necessary support and training to ensure that they are equipped with effective and positive methods of disciplining students. We remain committed to working with teachers, parents, and education policymakers to create safe and supportive learning environments for all students.
About Informed Teachers Network (ITN)
Informed Teachers Network (ITN) is a non-profit organization committed to promoting ethical and effective teaching practices through professional development, advocacy, and research. Our mission is to empower teachers to provide quality education and ensure the success of every student.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Hon Jerry Akporhor
Founder, Lead Educator & Counseling Psychologist
informedteachersnetwork.com
0545775477
