Teachers sound alarm over lawlessness at Kukurantumi Methodist Basic School

Teachers and administrators at Kukurantumi Methodist Basic School are raising the alarm over increasing lawlessness on the school premises, warning that they may be forced to shut down the institution unless urgent action is taken to protect students and restore order.

The crisis stems from a disturbing pattern of misconduct by a group of local youths, locally referred to as “town boys,” who have reportedly been using the school’s classrooms as a hangout spot for illicit activities. According to multiple sources, including teachers and parents, these individuals have been seen defecating in classrooms, smoking, and even engaging in sexual acts on school grounds, particularly after school hours and during weekends.

“This is no longer a teaching and learning environment,” a teacher told journalists. “We come in the mornings to find excrement on desks, used condoms, cigarette butts, and graffiti scrawled on walls. It’s degrading and dangerous, not just for our students, but for us as educators.”

School authorities say the problem has worsened due to the lack of physical security. Most classrooms lack windows and have flimsy doors, making it easy for unauthorized persons to gain access.

“The school is like an open house,” said the headteacher, who requested anonymity. “There’s no fencing, no security personnel, and no proper locking system. These boys come and go as they please, treating our classrooms like private lounges.”

In a formal petition submitted to the Abuakwa North Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) in Akyem Kukurantumi, school administrators have called for immediate intervention. They are urging the local government to provide security personnel, install perimeter fencing, repair or install windows, and help coordinate community efforts to monitor the area after school hours.

The situation has sparked outrage among parents and community members, many of whom say they are ashamed of the state of a once-revered educational institution.

“Our children are scared to stay behind for extra lessons,” said parent Enoch Adjei. “How can we expect them to learn in a place that’s being used as a toilet and a brothel?”

Some community elders have expressed regret over the youths’ behavior, acknowledging that the actions of a few are tarnishing the reputation of the entire town. However, there is concern that without swift and coordinated action, the school may be forced to suspend operations—an outcome that would severely impact the education of over 300 pupils.

The Municipal Chief Executive’s office has acknowledged receipt of the petition and says it is working with the District Education Directorate and local security agencies to assess the situation. A joint task force is expected to be deployed in the coming days to secure the school premises and identify the individuals involved.

As the community watches closely, teachers at Kukurantumi Methodist Basic School remain hopeful that intervention will come in time to save the institution.

“We don’t want to close,” said one teacher. “But if no one protects our schools, what future do our children have?”