Tackling bullying, indiscipline in SHS: Call for reform

Recent incidents of indiscipline and bullying in Ghana’s Senior High Schools (SHS) highlight an urgent need for reform. 

A survey by the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) in 2022 revealed that over 40 per cent of SHS students have experienced or witnessed bullying, often involving physical violence.

Additionally, the Ghana Education Service (GES) reported a 16 per cent rise in student-related disciplinary cases in 2023 compared to 2020. These alarming figures indicate that effective policies are urgently needed to address these issues.

I witnessed a student who was viciously attacked by seniors at his SHS for breaking a minor school rule.

The response from school authorities, which included relying on parents to punish the offenders, highlighted a broader problem: teachers and administrators seem to have little control over students, raising concerns about the lack of effective disciplinary measures.

Breakdown of authority

One major issue is the breakdown of authority in schools. The removal of corporal punishment, while progressive, has left educators struggling to maintain discipline.

A University of Education, Winneba, study found that 71 per cent of SHS teachers feel unequipped to handle student misbehaviour effectively. Alternative punishments, such as detention or extra assignments, are often ignored by students.

Many now challenge teachers' authority, sometimes involving their parents to defend even minor infractions. This shift has made it difficult for teachers to enforce discipline without facing backlash from both students and parents.

unintended consequences

The introduction of the Free SHS policy in 2017 has exacerbated the problem. While it has successfully expanded access to education, leading to a 22 per cent increase in enrolment, it has also contributed to overcrowded classrooms and dormitories.

These conditions have fostered anonymity and reduced supervision, making it difficult for teachers to monitor students closely. Overcrowding has also created an environment where bullying can thrive unchecked.

Compounding the problem is the growing disengagement of parents, who, without the burden of paying school fees, have become less involved in their children’s education.

Many parents no longer check on their children or maintain regular communication with school authorities. 

A survey by the Ghana National Association of Parents found that 60 per cent of parents feel less connected to their children’s schooling due to the removal of fees. 

As a result, many students act out without fear of consequences, knowing their parents may side with them against teachers.

Way forward

Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach,starting with a review of the Free SHS policy to mitigate overcrowding and ensure closer supervision of students.

This could include reducing class sizes to meet UNESCO’s recommended 25:1 student-to-teacher ratio and expanding boarding facilities to alleviate overcrowding.

The use  of electronic monitoring systems, such as CCTV, in dormitories and high-risk areas would also help deter bullying and allow for quicker intervention when incidents occur.

Equally important is the role of parents. Schools cannot manage indiscipline without the support of parents. It is crucial that parents take responsibility for their children’s behaviour and work with schools to address issues as they arise.

Increased parental involvement through regular check-ins and communication with teachers could restore a sense of accountability and help create a more disciplined environment.

Societal problem

Bullying is not just a school issue but a societal one. A nationwide effort is needed to educate students on the importance of respect, empathy and non-violence. The GES should implement mandatory anti-bullying programmes as part of the SHS curriculum.

Research shows that schools with comprehensive anti-bullying programmes experience a significant reduction in bullying incidents.

Exploring alternative forms of discipline, such as peer mediation, counselling and restorative justice, could also help address the root causes of student misbehaviour.

These approaches focus on resolving conflicts constructively and have been shown to reduce repeat offences.

The growing indiscipline in Ghana’s SHS is a complex issue that requires a collective effort from parents, educators and policymakers.

The Free SHS policy, while successful in expanding access to education, has introduced new challenges that must be addressed to ensure a safe and conducive learning environment.

Through policy reforms, improved supervision and increased parental involvement, we can restore discipline in schools and nurture future leaders grounded in values of respect and accountability. The time for action is now.

The writer is a consultant, NGO Management. 
E-mail: anita.ampofoa.ag@gmail.com