Mahama Sounds Alarm on SHS Indiscipline, Calls for National Unity

President John Dramani Mahama has expressed deep concern over the growing wave of indiscipline in Senior High Schools (SHSs) across Ghana, describing it as a threat to the moral fabric of society.

Speaking during a meeting with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference at the Jubilee House on Friday, 23 May 2025, President Mahama warned that a breakdown of values and morals is creating serious challenges in the country’s education system.

“There have been incidents where students are found with guns in public schools,” he revealed. “We even had a case where a student almost lost her eyesight after being shot by another student. This should not be happening in our schools.”

The President’s concerns echo the recent alarm raised by the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), which has threatened to take action if the government fails to address the worsening situation by the end of May.

President Mahama emphasized the need for collaborative efforts among all stakeholders—government, religious groups, parents, and school authorities—to curb the rising trend of violence and indiscipline.

He raised key questions about the current state of moral education, teacher absenteeism, and the effectiveness of school inspections. “The inspectorate division of the Ghana Education Service (GES) cannot be everywhere at once. So, what do we do about teacher absenteeism and discipline?” he asked.

Mahama called for closer collaboration between the Ghana Education Service and faith-based institutions, particularly churches that have traditionally played a strong role in education.

“How can we work with the churches to monitor and support teachers in our schools? Are the teachers posted there actually showing up and doing their job? Collaboration can help us find solutions,” he noted.

On a different but related note, President Mahama also addressed the ongoing issue of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, stating that the problem is made worse by youth unemployment and economic hardship. He made it clear that small-scale mining is not illegal if properly regulated.

Mahama’s comments reflect a broader concern about youth discipline and opportunity, calling for unified national action to secure the future of Ghana’s next generation.