Achimota School has been found liable for negligence in the death of a 15-year-old student, Kervin Kofi Moses, who died in 2016. According to the court’s findings, Kervin had visited the school’s clinic on November 28, 2016, complaining of malaria symptoms, but was given ibuprofen and told it wasn’t malaria.
Despite his condition worsening, the school’s Housemaster, Fraser House, refused the mother’s requests to send Kervin to the hospital, leading to a delay in medical attention. The court held that the school owed a duty of care to Kervin, as he was in their custody, and that they breached this duty by not seeking prompt medical attention.
The mother had repeatedly contacted the Housemaster, expressing concern for her son’s health, but her messages were largely ignored. On December 2, 2016, the Housemaster finally informed the mother that Kervin was sick and had been rushed to the hospital, but it was too late, and Kervin passed away on December 4, 2016.
The court awarded GH¢ 400,000 in general damages and GH¢ 200,000 in damages for negligence, holding Achimota School, the Housemaster, and the Attorney General liable. The judgment highlights the school’s failure to prioritize Kervin’s health and well-being, leading to his avoidable death.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of duty of care and prompt medical attention, especially in institutions responsible for the welfare of children. The outcome of this case may bring some closure to Kervin’s family, but it also underscores the need for accountability and improved protocols in schools to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
