The Upper East Regional Minister, Akamugri Donatus Atanga, has called for tougher enforcement of discipline in schools, citing teacher absenteeism, student misconduct and substance abuse as threats to quality education.
He urged education directors to strengthen supervision and ensure that teachers and students who violate professional and school standards face fair but firm disciplinary action.
Mr Atanga made the call at the 33rd Annual National Conference of Directors of Education in Bolgatanga on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.
“We cannot talk about quality learning outcomes while ignoring teacher absenteeism, student indiscipline, alcoholism and substance abuse among both students and teachers,” he said.
The minister stressed that teachers must demonstrate responsible conduct and serve as role models, while parents, traditional authorities and local communities support efforts to instil discipline and positive values in learners.
Beyond discipline, he called for a stronger focus on practical skills, digital literacy, critical thinking and creativity to prepare students for an evolving job market.
He said education in the Upper East Region should equip young people to take advantage of economic opportunities in agriculture, livestock production, tourism and cross-border trade.
Mr Atanga also urged education directors to ensure accountability in the use of educational resources and strengthen collaboration with district assemblies and other stakeholders to improve teaching and learning.
He said the effectiveness of education policies should be judged by their impact in classrooms and the quality of education delivered to children, rather than the policies formulated or resolutions adopted at conferences.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
