The National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) has issued a call to heads of Senior High Schools (SHSs) to cease denying students permission to seek medical attention outside of school premises. This appeal comes on the heels of a recent court ruling against Achimota School, which was found negligent in the 2016 death of a student and ordered to pay GH¢600,000 in damages.
The court’s decision highlights the importance of prompt medical care for students. NAGRAT President Angel Carbonu emphasized the need for school leaders to prioritize student well-being, stressing that denying access to medical attention can have severe consequences.
“When a student comes to you, you are not a medical professional…all that you have to do is refer the student to the appropriate professionals,” Carbonu said in an interview with Citi FM.
Carbonu urged school authorities to promptly release students requiring medical care, noting that timely intervention can prevent tragic outcomes. NAGRAT’s appeal aims to ensure no student faces unnecessary health risks due to bureaucratic delays or negligence.
The association hopes this case will serve as a reminder to educational institutions to prioritize student health and safety. “What business does a housemaster or housemistress have to deny a student exeat to go to the hospital?” Carbonu asked.
