Education Ministry condemns Yendi school shooting, calls for swift probe

The Ministry of Education has strongly condemned the shooting incident at Zohe Evangelical Presbyterian (EP) Primary School in Yendi in the Northern Region, describing the attack as a serious threat to the safety and security of pupils, teachers and the entire school community.

The Ministry has directed the Ghana Police Service to immediately investigate the incident and ensure that those responsible are identified, arrested and prosecuted.

According to preliminary reports, two armed men allegedly stormed the school premises and fired indiscriminately, causing panic among pupils, teachers and other staff members.

The attack reportedly left the school's headmaster injured after he was allegedly assaulted by the assailants during the incident.

In a statement, the Ministry described the violence as unacceptable, stressing that educational institutions must remain safe environments where children can learn without fear.

"The Ministry of Education unequivocally condemns the disturbing shooting incident that occurred at Zohe Evangelical Presbyterian (EP) Primary School in Yendi, in the Northern Region," the statement said.

It emphasised that schools are places dedicated to education, child development and personal growth and should never become scenes of violence or criminal activity.

"Schools are sacred spaces dedicated to teaching, learning, and the holistic development of children. Acts of violence, intimidation, and the use of firearms on school premises are unacceptable and constitute a grave threat to the safety and well-being of learners, teachers, and the entire educational community," the Ministry stated.

Minister for Education Haruna Iddrisu has consequently instructed the Ghana Police Service to give the matter urgent attention and conduct a thorough investigation into the attack.

"The Minister has directed the immediate attention of the Ghana Police Service to this criminal act and has called for swift investigations into the incident," the statement added.

The Ministry also urged members of the public to respect the sanctity of school environments and refrain from any actions that could endanger the lives of learners, teachers and education workers.

Expressing concern for those affected, the Ministry extended its support to the injured headmaster, pupils and staff of the school.

"We stand in solidarity with the affected pupils, staff, and the injured Headmaster and wish him a speedy recovery," the statement noted.

The Ministry further assured parents, guardians and the general public that it remains committed to working closely with the Ghana Police Service and other security agencies to strengthen safety and security across educational institutions nationwide.

It reiterated that protecting schools from violence remains a top priority and appealed to anyone with credible information that could assist investigators to cooperate with the police.

Authorities are expected to continue investigations to establish the motive behind the attack and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.