Tension surge at Kumaca as authorities quarantine over 60 WASSCE candidates, angry parents demand justice

A controversial ‘quarantine’ system implemented by the authorities of Kumasi Academy (KUMACA) has sparked outrage among parents and left over sixty (60) final-year students traumatized in the middle of the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

The affected students have reportedly been stripped of their boarding status (de-boardinized) and are being forced to write their external examinations in isolation from their peers under what has been described as tense and hostile conditions.

The Genesis of the Conflict;

The mass disciplinary action stems from alleged violent clashes during a recent inter-schools sporting event at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium. Based on photographs and videos allegedly taken near the stadium, school authorities identified and segregated the students.

However, the candidates have vehemently denied the accusations, claiming they are victims of mistaken identity. Speaking on the condition of anonymity, some students explained that they were merely waiting for transportation back to campus when they were filmed from a distance.

“We were just waiting to board a vehicle back to school when someone took photos of us,” one worried student revealed. “We had no idea that other students had caused a disturbance and fled. Now, we are being treated like criminals while we are trying to focus on our future. It is inhumane.”

The development has led to widespread condemnation from parents, who argue that the school’s approach is “senseless” and psychologically damaging.

Agya Adu, a spokesperson for the aggrieved parents, questioned the legal and moral basis of the school’s decision. “How can you quarantine and de-boardinize students in the middle of their final exams? No parent here condones indiscipline, but on what basis do you look at random videos and accuse children of violence without a proper hearing?” he asked.

He added that the “harsh treatment” is destroying the students’ concentration and could lead to mass failure, calling on the Ghana Education Service (GES) to intervene immediately to protect the rights of the candidates.

Efforts by journalists to seek clarification from the school administration were met with significant resistance. During a visit to the KUMACA campus, reporters were met with a hostile reception from the Assistant Headmistress in charge of Domestic Affairs.

Representing the Headmaster, Mr. Samuel Kwame Djato (who was absent at the time), she rudely declined to confirm or deny the quarantine reports. She subsequently ordered the journalists to leave her office, directing them to seek information from the GES headquarters instead.

As the WASSCE enters its critical stages, the psychological welfare of these 60 students remains in the balance. Parents are now appealing to the Ministry of Education and the Regional Directorate of the GES to investigate the “quarantine” system at KUMACA and ensure that the students are allowed to complete their exams in a fair and supportive environment.

Call the following numbers for more;

Agya Adu (Parent)- 0244957700

Mr Samuel Djato (Kumaca Headmaster)- 0244738239