Academic activities have officially resumed at Bokankye D/A School in the Atwima Nwabiagya North Municipality of the Ashanti Region, under tight security following its recent closure due to gunfire incidents involving land guards over a disputed piece of land near the school.
The school which includes the Kindergarten, Primary, and Junior High sections was temporarily shut down on Thursday, February 27, 2025, after land guards reportedly fired gunshots near the premises, creating fear and panic among students and staff.
It’s been reported that the ongoing conflict over a piece of land near the school involves two rival chiefs, with one allegedly deploying land guards in an attempt to assert control.
Following several engagements between school authorities, traditional leaders, and security officials, an agreement was reached to reopen the school on Tuesday, March 4, with measures put in place to safeguard students’ right to education.
Speaking to Citi News, the assistant headteacher, Francis Kakari, and the vice chairman of the Unit Committee, Richard Kwabena Boateng, confirmed the deployment of security personnel around the school’s boundaries to maintain safety and ensure a peaceful learning environment.
However, they noted that there were no visible security officers within the school compound as personnel opted to remain stationed at vantage points around the school rather than appearing in full regalia and armed, to prevent fear and panic among students.
The assistant headteacher, Francis Kakari, also confirmed low attendance and urged parents to allow their children to return to school, assuring them of their safety.
“From the assurance we had from the district commander, we had no option but to resume school. On resuming today, attendance is very low. So, we had to inform the entire school, to inform the others who are not here, so they all return.
“We have also given information to the information centre so they can inform the others. We are doing all we can to ensure that school is in full session,” he stated.
