The National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) has announced plans to take a stronger stance against teachers and non-teaching staff accused of sexually abusing students, warning that it will no longer protect individuals who endanger learners.
NAGRAT President, Jacob Anabah, said the Association is working on measures to deal decisively with sexual harassment and abuse in schools and is prepared to expose those found culpable.
Speaking to Adom News’ Kodwo Mensah Aboroampa, Mr Anabah said sexual abuse is not limited to schools and can also occur in homes, suggesting that perpetrators often have underlying behavioural problems.
He stressed that teachers have a parental responsibility towards students and must maintain professional boundaries at all times.
“When you are employed in the schools, you are the parent to all the students. There should be no sexual relationship with students in the school. Those involved may have serious problems,” he said.
Mr Anabah also referred to the Ghana Education Service Council Code of Conduct for Staff of the Ghana Education Service, Revised June 2017, which prohibits employees from engaging in conduct that may constitute sexual harassment of pupils or students.
He called on traditional and religious leaders, as well as other influential members of society, to speak out against sexual abuse involving children and ensure that such cases are properly addressed.
“The society has to wake up and fight it. Opinion leaders must speak truth on issues of sexual assault and relationships with children. Religious leaders and chiefs must speak,” he said.
According to Mr Anabah, sexual harassment and abuse in schools have existed for years, but the increased use of social media has made such incidents more visible.
He disclosed that NAGRAT has established a committee to develop measures for dealing with teachers involved in sexual misconduct and indicated that the Association would be prepared to name and shame offenders.
Touching on the reported sexual abuse case at Obuasi SECTECH, Mr Anabah questioned why the matter was allowed to escalate despite allegedly being known earlier.
He asked who took steps to report the matter and seek justice for the affected students when the issue first emerged.
The NAGRAT President particularly cautioned male teachers against exploiting their close relationships with learners under the guise of providing care and support.
“Don’t use your care as male teachers to the learners to abuse them. GES must step up its supervision role to protect the school environment,” he said.
He further urged the Ghana Education Service (GES) to strengthen supervision in schools and take firm action to ensure that educational institutions remain safe environments for students and staff.
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