By Morkporkpor Anku, GNA
Accra, Oct. 29, GNA – The Methodist Church Ghana has condemned the alleged sexual abuse and exploitation of about 19 female students of the Obuasi Senior High Technical School and called for a thorough, independent and transparent investigation into the matter.
The allegations involve the school’s Headmaster, Mr Zakaria Abdulai, which had attracted national attention.
A statement issued by the Gender, Family and Social Intervention Directorate of the Church on Thursday said the allegations had caused distress to the students and immense pain to their families and loved ones.
It said the Church, committed to protecting children, promoting human dignity and pursuing justice, condemned all forms of sexual abuse, exploitation and violence against children and vulnerable persons.
“Schools must provide safe environments where young people could learn, develop and pursue their aspirations without fear of intimidation, abuse or victimisation,” it said.
It expressed sympathy and solidarity with the affected students and their families and prayed for their healing, restoration and strength following the alleged emotional, psychological and educational harm.
The statement also commended individuals who had found the courage to speak out and seek justice.
It said the matter raised concerns beyond the alleged conduct of an individual, particularly about the effectiveness of safeguarding mechanisms within the educational system.
“Reports that complaints might have been made over an extended period without adequate intervention made the situation more troubling,” it added.
The statement called on the Government to ensure a comprehensive investigation into all the allegations and any institutional failures connected to the case.
It urged the authorities to prosecute anyone found culpable under Ghana’s laws, irrespective of the person’s position, influence or status, and to hold accountable officials or institutions whose actions or inactions might have contributed to the alleged prolonged suffering.
The statement called for confidential, professional and long-term psychological, medical, social and educational support for the affected students and their families to protect their well-being and future aspirations.
It urged the Government to strengthen child protection and safeguarding systems across educational institutions and establish effective, confidential reporting channels through which students could report abuse without fear of victimisation or retaliation.
The Church called on state institutions, faith-based organisations, civil society groups, mental health professionals and community leaders to support the healing and recovery of the affected students and their families.
It appealed to the media and the public to respect the privacy and dignity of the students and their families while supporting efforts to secure justice.
The Methodist Church said the incident should serve as a wake-up call to the nation, stressing that the safety and well-being of children must never be compromised.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe