The Bawku Presbyterian Nurses and Midwifery Training College has been at the
center of controversy for the past two months following the school’s failure to
reopen after its last academic break. This delay is not due to academic
challenges or administrative setbacks but rather deep-rooted security concerns
and tension among ethnic groups in the region, which have now spilled into the
school’s operations.
Initially, the school was located within the premises of the Bawku
Presbyterian Hospital, which has served as its main campus for many years.
However, due to rising insecurity in Bawku and recent incidents near the
hospital area, students began to express fear about returning to campus. As a
result, the administration created a satellite campus within the compound of
Bawku Senior High School to provide a safer space for teaching and learning.
This move by the school authorities was welcomed by many students. Over
time, the satellite campus started attracting more students than the main
campus. Reports indicate that while the main campus had only about fifteen
students willing to return, the satellite campus recorded over one hundred
students eager to resume classes there. The difference in numbers raised
eyebrows and triggered debate among concerned groups.
A major turning point came when a student known as Arafat, who was
reportedly involved in violent activities and identified as a Mamprusi fighter,
was killed during a confrontation. This incident heightened the fear among
students staying on the main campus, many of whom decided to relocate to the
satellite campus at Bawku SHS to ensure their safety. Students made it clear
that they could no longer learn in an environment that felt unsafe.
When the school administration acknowledged the overwhelming preference for
the satellite campus, it became obvious that the main campus could soon be
deserted. This shift in preference did not sit well with some Mamprusi
community members. Reports emerged that the Principal of the school received
numerous threats from unknown individuals believed to be from the Mamprusi
faction. These individuals reportedly warned the Principal against reopening
the satellite campus and demanded that all students be forced back to the main
campus.
In response to the threats and rising concerns, the Principal engaged the
Upper East Regional Minister to seek a peaceful resolution. The Minister promised
that security would be provided to escort students and ensure safety at the
main campus. However, this decision faced strong opposition from students,
especially those from Kusaug and other parts of the Upper East Region.
According to them, the presence of armed security forces on campus would not
make them feel safe. Rather, it could add tension and disrupt learning,
especially if gunshots or clashes were to occur near the school.
Students maintained that the mere presence of security cannot provide the
mental peace needed to focus on academic work. They insisted on continuing
their studies at the Bawku SHS satellite campus, which they believe offers a
more peaceful and neutral learning environment. Many students argued that they
have the right to choose where to learn, especially when their safety is
involved.
Observers in the region say this situation reflects a broader problem that
goes beyond the school. Ethnic conflict and insecurity in Bawku have affected
daily life, and now even educational institutions are feeling the impact. The
school, which once united people from different backgrounds, now finds itself
divided by fear and mistrust.
There is growing concern among stakeholders, parents, and residents over the
prolonged closure of the school. With academic activities at a standstill, many
are calling for urgent action to protect the future of the students. They
believe that reopening both the main and satellite campuses is the best way
forward. Allowing students to attend the campus where they feel most secure
would reduce tension and ensure that education continues without further delay.
It is clear that the interest of a few must not be allowed to overshadow the
collective rights of the student body. As the debate continues, all eyes are on
the school authorities, regional leaders, and security agencies to find a
solution that will bring peace and restore confidence in the institution.
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