Bright Appiah Claims Schools Value Reputation Over Student Welfare and Safety

Bright Appiah, Executive Director of Child Rights International, has made a shocking claim that many schools in Ghana prioritize their image over the welfare of their students. This assertion comes amid growing concerns about student safety in boarding schools, with several reports of student deaths in secondary schools due to medical negligence.

Appiah emphasized that schools have a duty of care to their students, but some institutions seem to neglect this responsibility in favor of maintaining a favorable public image. He stated that policies should focus on the welfare of children, not just protecting the school’s image, highlighting a critical issue within Ghana’s education system.

Appiah’s remarks follow disturbing reports of 11 student deaths in secondary schools from 2021 to the present, with nine attributed to inadequate medical care. This alarming trend suggests that schools might prioritize their reputation over implementing effective safety measures, leading to preventable tragedies.

Appiah urged parents to take an active role in ensuring their children’s safety, including scrutinizing school facilities, understanding emergency protocols, and questioning school authorities. He also called for systemic reforms within the education sector, including a comprehensive review of existing policies and the implementation of new guidelines that prioritize student safety.

Advocacy groups like Child Rights International and Africa Edu Watch are working to improve safety standards in schools, but they emphasize that parents and guardians must also play an active role. By staying informed, demanding transparency, and actively engaging with school authorities, parents can help ensure that their children’s welfare is given the priority it deserves, and schools refocus on their primary duty of ensuring student safety and well-being.