The headmaster of Nkwanta Senior High School, Solomon Sarpong Bagmae, has publicly apologized to the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES) and the Acting Oti Regional Director of Education for granting a media interview without prior approval.
The interview, which was aimed at seeking food support for candidates preparing for the WASSCE exams, led to his suspension due to comments he made.
In reference to the publication by Adom Media Channel dated August 4, 2025 — also carried by other media outlets under the headline “Nkwanta Schools Appeal for Food Support for WASSCE Candidates Amid Conflict” — Mr. Bagmae clarified that the report did not accurately reflect the situation.
Contrary to claims of an increase in candidate numbers, he explained that none of the three schools registered additional candidates; only those already registered with WAEC were counted.
He further stated that food provisions were available prior to the crisis, and after authorities requested that candidates return to their studies, food continued to be provided.
Reflecting on his interview with Adom Media, the headmaster admitted that his eagerness to advocate for students — who have been facing challenges due to the ongoing conflict in Nkwanta while preparing for the WASSCE — led him to exaggerate the school’s needs.
“In doing so, I inadvertently echoed the sentiments of Charles Dickens’ character Oliver Twist by asking for more,” he said.
Mr. Bagmae stressed that it was never his intention to disrespect or undermine the Government, the Ghana Education Service, or any other authorities.
He offered an unreserved apology to the Minister of Education, the Director-General of the GES, the Oti Regional Minister, the Acting Regional Director of Education for Oti, the Member of Parliament for Nkwanta South, the Municipal Chief Executive of Nkwanta South, the Municipal Director of Education, the Board of Governors, and all other stakeholders who have worked to ensure that candidates could return to school to sit for their WASSCE.
He assured the public that the candidates are now comfortably taking their exams in a conducive environment.
Source: Obrempongba K. Owusu
ALSO READ:
