Dr. Osei Adutwum proposes strict reforms to curb rising student hooliganism

Former Education Minister, Osei Yaw Adutwum, has called for urgent reforms in Ghana’s educational system to address rising cases of student indiscipline, describing the situation as a growing threat that requires decisive action.

Speaking on the issue of student hooliganism on Kessben TV’s Digest, the former minister argued that such behaviour would not be tolerated in countries like the United States due to the existence of strict laws that deal firmly with offenders.

According to him, Ghana must take bold steps to review laws governing the educational sector to restore discipline across institutions.

Hon. Adutwum proposed the introduction of a “Dean of Discipline” position in schools to specifically oversee student conduct and enforce regulations effectively.

He further suggested the implementation of what he termed “opportunity transfer” — a system where persistently indisciplined students are transferred to remote schools outside their comfort zones as a corrective and deterrent measure.

“This will serve as a warning to others and help reform students who consistently flout school rules,” he indicated.

The former minister also blamed the growing influence of social media for negatively shaping the attitudes of many young people. He stressed the need for counter-reforms to mitigate its impact on students.

“The influx of social media has woefully impacted many of the youth. We must apply counter reforms to mitigate the situation,” he stated.

Addressing concerns over whether the abolishing of corporal punishment has contributed to rising indiscipline, Hon. Adutwum dismissed the notion that caning is the ultimate solution.

He cited his experience at Kumasi High School, noting that although corporal punishment was not practiced during his time there, discipline was firmly upheld on campus.

“There was no corporal punishment in Kumasi High School during our time, but there was absolute discipline,” he recalled.

In conclusion, the former Education Minister emphasized the crucial role of parents in shaping children’s behaviour.

“If parents train their wards in modesty and good values, the children would not need corporal punishment to be disciplined,” he cautioned.

His comments come amid ongoing national discussions about student unrest and the broader challenges confronting Ghana’s education sector.