The Frimpong Manso Institute (FMI) is calling for a stronger emphasis on moral and religious education in schools, arguing that growing indiscipline among students poses a serious threat to the future of education in Ghana.
The call follows violent clashes between students of Okuapeman Senior High School (SHS) and Mount Sinai SHS in the Eastern Region, which reportedly resulted in school facilities being burnt and vandalised, while some students were injured.
In a statement, the Institute said the scale of the violence had shocked the nation, particularly amid allegations that some teachers may have played a role in inciting students.
“Ghanaians are shell-shocked by the extent of violent clashes between students of Okuapeman and Mount Sinai Senior High Schools in the Eastern Region which left school facilities burnt or vandalized.”
The Institute commended the police for what it described as a swift and professional response, including the arrest of some students, while investigations continue into the incident.
FMI said the alleged involvement of teachers was particularly disturbing, warning that educators who encourage violence could undermine the very values schools are expected to instil in young people.
It is therefore urging authorities to take firm action against anyone found culpable, including teachers, arguing that perpetrators must face appropriate sanctions to deter similar conduct.
According to the Institute, the latest incident is a symptom of what it describes as deepening moral decay and indiscipline in Ghanaian schools, with implications extending beyond the immediate violence.
The Institute welcomed moves by the Ministry of Education to introduce character development into the curriculum from the basic level through senior high school.
It believes the approach should be strengthened to help schools develop not only academically competent students but also young people guided by discipline, responsibility and sound moral values.
FMI cited Proverbs 9:10, which states that “the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom,” as part of its argument for incorporating stronger moral and religious values into education.
The Institute’s intervention comes amid growing public concern over violent incidents involving students and the broader challenge of maintaining discipline in schools.
It is urging authorities to deal firmly with perpetrators while placing greater emphasis on character formation as a long-term response to student indiscipline.
Read the full statement below:
