The Bono Regional Minister, Hon. Joseph Addae Akwaboah, has underscored the need for decisive national action to tackle indiscipline within Ghana’s educational institutions, describing the issue as one that threatens not only academic achievement but also the country’s moral fabric and future human resource development.
Addressing participants at the National Conference on “Stemming the Growing Indiscipline in Schools in an Emerging World,” the Minister noted that the gathering represented far more than another educational conference.
According to him, it was a crucial national conversation aimed at safeguarding the future of Ghanaian children and restoring discipline across schools.
Hon. Akwaboah noted that rising cases of disrespect for authority, violence and other forms of misconduct have become matters of serious national concern, requiring the commitment of every stakeholder within the education sector.
The Regional Minister stressed that education should extend beyond classroom instruction and academic excellence to include the development of values, discipline and responsible citizenship.
He argued that while knowledge and technical skills remain essential, they lose their significance when learners lack moral direction and respect for societal values.
“Education is not limited to the acquisition of knowledge and skills. It must shape character and prepare individuals to become responsible members of society. Without discipline, knowledge loses direction, and intelligence alone cannot build a great nation,”
Hon. Akwaboah
The Minister emphasised that Ghana’s educational aspirations cannot be realised unless learners develop integrity, responsibility and respect alongside academic competence. He said schools remain central to moulding future leaders whose conduct will determine the nation’s progress.
Infrastructure Alone Cannot Transform Education
Hon. Akwaboah acknowledged government interventions aimed at improving educational infrastructure, including efforts to eliminate the double-track system and provide more conducive learning environments.
However, he cautioned that investments in infrastructure alone would not resolve the broader challenges confronting the education sector.
Instead, he called for equal emphasis on nurturing discipline, ethical values and positive behaviour among students.
“The transformation of education must go beyond infrastructure and assets. It must involve the development of discipline, good values and responsible behaviour among learners,”
Hon. Akwaboah
He further explained that schools achieve their intended purpose only when teachers, parents, students and surrounding communities work together to uphold standards of conduct.
According to him, learners who receive guidance from committed teachers and are exposed to practical, values-based education are more likely to develop self-confidence, creativity, discipline and respect for others.
Technology Demands Stronger Guidance
The Bono Regional Minister also highlighted the influence of rapid technological advancement and globalisation on young people, noting that digital platforms have transformed how students learn and interact.
While acknowledging that technology and social media provide valuable educational opportunities, he warned that they also expose learners to influences that require stronger parental supervision and effective school guidance systems.
He maintained that educators and families must work together to ensure that technological advancement contributes positively to students’ development rather than encouraging behaviours that undermine discipline.
He warned that the values neglected today could evolve into greater national challenges in the future if immediate interventions were not pursued.
Discipline Essential for National Development
Hon. Akwaboah argued that one of Ghana’s greatest legacies would be the establishment of strong educational institutions capable of producing well-rounded graduates who contribute meaningfully to national development.
He stressed that discipline should not merely be demanded from students but intentionally taught through effective educational policies, guidance systems and practical learning opportunities.
According to him, engaging learners in innovation, skills development and problem-solving activities helps cultivate patience, teamwork, resilience and responsibility.
He also advocated strengthening guidance and counselling services while improving teacher quality to enable schools to identify behavioural challenges early and provide appropriate interventions.
Region Ready to Support Education Reforms
The Bono Regional Minister assured participants that the Bone Region remains committed to supporting national initiatives that promote discipline, peace and holistic education.
He said transforming Ghana’s education system requires renewed commitment from government, schools, parents and communities working collaboratively toward a shared objective.
“Our region stands ready to partner with the Ministry of Education and all stakeholders to ensure Ghana’s education system produces graduates who are academically equipped, morally grounded and prepared to lead,”
Hon. Akwaboah
Hon. Akwaboah reiterated that disciplined students ultimately become responsible citizens, productive workers and ethical leaders capable of driving Ghana’s long-term development.
As the conference progressed, the Minister encouraged delegates to engage in meaningful dialogue, exchange practical experiences and formulate implementable recommendations capable of addressing the root causes of indiscipline across Ghanaian schools. He expressed optimism that the conference would generate sustainable policy directions that strengthen educational standards nationwide.
The conference brought together policymakers, education administrators, teachers, traditional leaders, faith-based organisations and other stakeholders to deliberate on practical strategies for reversing the growing trend of indiscipline and reinforcing values-based education across the country’s educational institutions.e policy recommendations capable of reshaping the daily realities of Ghanaian classrooms.
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