In a rather disturbing video going viral on social media, a male student was seen choking his colleague from behind. He then forcefully slammed the topless boy’s head onto the edge of a bunk bed, prompting voices off-camera to urge him to let go due to the evident harm caused.
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has condemned the violent incident and called for a probe into the matter. In a statement by the GES, it condemned the incident as an act of violence and is asking the Central Regional Education Service to refer the case to the law enforcement agency for proper action.
The Chronicle is happy that some remedial actions have already been taken by the authorities of Adisadel College, a Senior High Secondary School located in Cape Coast, in the Central Region of Ghana. The Headmaster of the School has issued a response following the emergence of the disturbing video showing the violent assault on the student.
A statement from the Headmaster disclosed that both the culprit responsible for the assault and the victim had been sent home. The victim is, however, expected to write his West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) from the West African Examinations Council’s (WAEC) center.Additionally, the student, who filmed the distressing incident, will face a one-week external suspension as a consequence of his involvement. Also, the Housemaster has been suspended immediately, pending the outcome of investigations.
The Ghana Education Service has applauded the authorities at Adisadel College for taking swift action pending further investigation, and has assured the general public that they were taking the matter very serious, and committed to ensuring a safe and secure learning environment for all students across the country.
Bullying among colleagues in schools is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention and action. School, often regarded as a place of learning and personal growth, can also be a breeding ground for negative behaviors like bullying. Bullying creates a toxic environment that, not only hinders personal development, but also undermines the values of education.
One of the most immediate and profound consequences of bullying a colleague is the emotional and psychological harm inflicted on the victim. Continuous harassment, verbal abuse, and social exclusion can lead to anxiety, depression and a significant decline in self-esteem. The victims may experience feelings of isolation, powerlessness, and hopelessness, affecting their ability to concentrate on studies, and participate actively in school activities.
The Chronicle is of the view that bullying negatively impacts on the academic performance of both the victim and the aggressor. The victims may struggle to focus on their studies due to the constant fear of being targeted, leading to a decline in their grades. On the other hand, bullies may result in disengagement from their studies, as they channel their energy into harmful behaviors, ultimately affecting their own academic progress.
It is a good thing that measures have been swiftly taken by the school authorities to send a strong message to the students involved, and the teachers whose alleged dereliction of duties might have led to the incident.
It is important to implement awareness campaigns in schools to educate students and staff about the negative effects of bullying and to help in fostering a respectful and inclusive environment.
Also, there is the need to encourage students and staff to report incidents of bullying without fear of retaliation. Schools should establish confidential reporting mechanisms and ensure all reports are taken seriously.
The Chronicle hopes the Adisadel College incident will be tackled head on, with all the culprits severely punished to serve as a deterrent to others.
