The Ghana Education Service (GES) has directed the immediate cessation of all inter-school sports competitions among Senior High and Technical schools in the Central Region until further notice. This decision follows a violent incident at the District Schools Athletics Games held in Agona Swedru on February 19, 2026, which left a student seriously injured.
Eyewitnesses report that tensions escalated between students of Obrachire Senior High Technical School and Swedru School of Business (SWESBUS), culminating in a physical clash. The victim, a student from Obrachire, was reportedly attacked with sticks and stones by a group of students. A video circulating on social media appears to capture parts of the assault, prompting widespread concern among parents, educators, and the public. Calm was only restored after bystanders intervened.
This is not the first time school sports competitions in the region have been disrupted by violence. Two weeks ago, the Eastern Regional Directorate of GES banned Koforidua Senior High Technical School, New Juaben Senior High School, and New Nsutam Senior High Technical School from all sporting and educational activities for two years following a stabbing and rape incident during the 2026 Super Zonal Sports Competition in Koforidua.
GES has stated that the suspension of competitions in the Central Region is intended to investigate the recent incident thoroughly, ensure student safety, and prevent further occurrences.
Parents, students, and community leaders have expressed concern over the rising trend of violence at school sporting events. The Ghana Police Service has confirmed it is investigating the Agona Swedru incident and is appealing to the public to provide any information that may aid the inquiry.
Officials have also emphasized that reputation alone is not enough to prevent violence, and that proper supervision, conflict management, and disciplinary measures are essential to safeguard students during school competitions.
GES, in collaboration with the Police, has assured that measures will be put in place to restore order and ensure safe participation in future sporting events, while reiterating that any act of violence at school competitions will be treated with zero tolerance.
