Review teacher training to protect students from abuse – Hamza Suhuyini

A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) communication team member Hamza Suhuyini has called for a review of teacher training in Ghana following allegations of sexual abuse at Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS).

He said teachers need better preparation on professional boundaries and appropriate interactions with students to prevent abuse in schools.

The NDC communicator made the remarks on Accra-based JoyNews’ AM Show on Thursday, October 22, while discussing the case and broader concerns about the safety of students in secondary schools.

“The fact is that even the training of teachers is a major challenge in terms of how to relate with students on campus. The limits that parents or teachers are supposed to have, especially when it comes to their interaction with students, are not there,” he said.

Suhuyini cited instances in which teachers allegedly asked students to perform personal tasks for them, arguing that such practices raised concerns about professional boundaries between educators and learners.

He also stressed the importance of parental involvement in children's lives, urging fathers and mothers to maintain regular conversations with their children about their experiences in school.

According to him, creating an environment in which children feel comfortable discussing their daily experiences can help parents identify troubling conduct and intervene early.

Beyond teacher training and parental supervision, Suhuyini called for a thorough investigation into the Obuasi SHTS allegations.

He noted that inquiries should not focus solely on the headmaster but also examine the possible involvement of other staff members.

Suhuyini further urged investigators to ensure that all allegations are properly examined and that anyone found to have committed an offence is held accountable, regardless of political affiliation.