CSJ demands independent probe into alleged sexual abuse at Obuasi SHTS

The Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) has called for a swift, independent investigation into allegations of sexual abuse involving female students at Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS) in the Ashanti Region, reportedly implicating the school's headmaster.

The centre is also demanding protection and support for affected students, accountability for any school officials who may have mishandled complaints, and reforms to strengthen safeguarding systems in secondary schools.

In a statement issued on Friday, October 23, CSJ acknowledged the steps taken by the authorities but warned against delays in the investigations, stressing that the presumption of innocence must not prevent students from seeking justice.

“The presumption of innocence must never become a reason for delay, or for silencing those who have come forward,” the organisation said.

The Ghana Education Service (GES) interdicted the headmaster on October 14, 2026, pending a full investigation. The Minister for Education has also referred the criminal aspects of the matter to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and directed his suspension.

The Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) in Bekwai has also forwarded the docket on one complaint to the Attorney-General's Department for advice.

CSJ stressed that the allegations had not been proven in court and that the headmaster was entitled to the presumption of innocence and a fair process.

However, it said reports that complaints had been raised months before the matter became public required further scrutiny.

“Of particular concern are reports that complaints were raised with school management in February 2026 and with the Municipal Education Directorate in March, and that further incidents were allegedly reported in June and July,” the statement said.

“If these reports are accurate, they point to a failure of safeguarding systems, and not only to the alleged conduct of one individual,” it added.

The centre has called on the police and the Attorney-General's Department to conclude the criminal process without delay. It also wants the administrative inquiry to be conducted independently of officials whose handling of the complaints may come under scrutiny, with the findings made public.

CSJ further demanded disciplinary action, subject to due process, against any officials found to have ignored, suppressed or mishandled complaints or discouraged students from reporting abuse.

On support for affected students, the centre said they must receive confidential medical, psychosocial, legal and educational assistance, alongside protection from intimidation, retaliation and victim-blaming.

“No student should lose her education because she spoke out,” CSJ stated.

It added that where any affected student is under 18, the Children's Act and Ghana's commitments under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child must be fully upheld.

The centre also wants the GES to establish independent safeguarding arrangements, provide counselling services and create clear, confidential reporting channels before the school reopens.

Beyond the immediate case, CSJ urged the Ministry of Education to commission an independent national audit of sexual misconduct and safeguarding systems in secondary schools.

It also called for the enforcement of the GES Code of Conduct, mandatory reporting arrangements with confidential channels, and regular public reports on cases and their outcomes.

CSJ urged the media and the public to protect the identities of survivors and adhere to the principle of doing no harm while pursuing accountability.

“No office, position or political affiliation should shield anyone from accountability,” the organisation said.

It added that it was ready to work with the Ministry of Education, GES, DOVVSU, the Department of Social Welfare and other civil society organisations to ensure justice for the students of Obuasi SHTS and prevent schools from becoming unsafe environments for learners.