14-Year-Old SHS Girl Arrested with Gun After Plotting to Kill Her Teacher Over Haircut, Recruit School Social Workers to Rescue – William Boadi, EAI
The Educate Africa Institute (EAI) is deeply concerned about the alarming rise in student violence across African schools, as highlighted by two recent tragic incidents in Nigeria and Ghana. These cases underscore the urgent need for governments to take proactive measures, including the recruitment of school social workers to help address student behavioral issues before they escalate into violence.
Shocking Incident in Nigeria.
In Nigeria, a 14-year-old girl from Ikot Ewa Secondary School was arrested by the Nigerian Army for allegedly plotting to murder her teacher with a cut-to-size double-barrel gun. The reported motive behind this disturbing act was the teacher’s enforcement of the school’s grooming policy, which required students to maintain natural hair. The girl, who had dyed her hair, was reportedly angered when her teacher insisted she cut it, leading her to plan the attack.
Reports indicate that the teenager spent days devising her plan before authorities intercepted her, preventing what could have been a tragic incident. This shocking event highlights not only the growing trend of student aggression but also the troubling accessibility of firearms to minors. The fact that a young student was able to acquire such a deadly weapon raises serious concerns about security measures within communities and schools.
A Disturbing Case in Ghana
Similarly, in Ghana, a teacher, Mr. Ishmael Famous, was stabbed in the left eye by a loitering student at Asuoso Senior High School in Offinso, Ashanti Region. The incident has left the teacher traumatized, making him question his choice of profession. Such violent attacks against educators create an unsafe learning environment and discourage professionals from dedicating themselves to teaching.
EAI’s Call for Action
These cases in Nigeria and Ghana are a wake-up call for African governments to take immediate action to curb violence in schools. EAI strongly urges governments across the continent to:
1. Recruit School Social Workers: The presence of trained social workers in schools can help identify and address behavioral issues among students before they escalate into violence. These professionals can provide counseling, conflict resolution, and mentorship to at-risk students.
2. Enhance Security Measures: Governments must strengthen school security to prevent students from accessing weapons and ensure the safety of both teachers and students.
3. Promote Discipline Through Positive Engagement: Schools should adopt holistic approaches to discipline, integrating psychological support and student engagement programs to foster responsible behavior.
Education should be a safe and empowering experience for all students and teachers. If urgent steps are not taken, the increasing violence in African schools will threaten the future of education and social stability. EAI stands ready to work with governments and stakeholders to implement solutions that will protect the learning environment and ensure the safety of all.