The Ghana Education Service (GES) has temporarily closed Zohe Evangelical Presbyterian (E.P.) Schools in the Yendi Municipality of the Northern Region after armed men reportedly invaded the school premises, assaulted the headmaster, fired multiple warning shots and vandalised school property, triggering fear among pupils, teachers and the surrounding community.
The decision, announced in a statement issued on July 10, 2026, forms part of measures to safeguard learners and staff while security agencies investigate the violent incident that occurred.
The Service says the school will only reopen after security authorities declare the environment safe for teaching and learning.
“Educational institutions must remain secure spaces where learners and teachers can pursue academic activities without fear, intimidation or violence.”
Ghana Education Service
The incident has also drawn condemnation from the Ministry of Education, which described schools as places that must remain free from violence and intimidation.
Disagreement Escalated into Violent Confrontation
According to the Ghana Education Service, preliminary investigations indicate that the incident stemmed from a disagreement between some members of the local community and the school authorities over an attempt to construct a commercial shed within the school’s premises.
The disagreement reportedly escalated when the individuals involved stormed the campus and discharged several warning shots into the air, causing panic among students and staff.
During the incident, the Headmaster of Zohe E.P. Junior High School Mr. Mohammed Shani Gazali, was physically assaulted.
He was later transported to hospital, where he received medical attention before being discharged.
Although no fatalities were recorded, the incident significantly disrupted academic activities and resulted in damage to portions of the school’s property. The matter has since been reported to the Ghana Police Service for investigation.
GES Orders Temporary Closure
Following an assessment of the security situation, the Ghana Education Service announced the temporary closure of the affected schools as a precautionary measure.
Management explained that the decision was taken in the interest of protecting both learners and staff while engagements continue with relevant stakeholders and security agencies.
The Service indicated that the schools are expected to reopen on Monday, July 13, subject to security clearance confirming that conditions are safe for the resumption of teaching and learning.
“The temporary closure is intended to protect students and staff while the necessary security assessments and stakeholder engagements are completed.”
Ghana Education Service
Education authorities noted that ensuring the physical safety of students remains a fundamental responsibility and that learning cannot effectively take place in an environment threatened by violence.
GES Condemns Violence Against Schools
The Ghana Education Service strongly condemned the attack, describing acts of vandalism and violence against educational institutions as unacceptable.
Management warned that assaults on members of the school community, including teachers, students and other staff, would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
The Service also emphasised that actions capable of undermining the safety of school environments threaten not only education but also the wellbeing of children and education professionals.
The incident has renewed concerns about the need to strengthen security around educational institutions, particularly in communities where disputes risk spilling onto school premises.
The Ministry of Education has similarly condemned the incident and directed the Ghana Police Service to expedite investigations and bring those responsible to justice.
“Acts that endanger teaching and learning undermine the right of every child to receive an education in a peaceful and protected environment.”
Ghana Education Service
Parents Assured of Student Safety
Despite the unfortunate development, the Ghana Education Service assured parents, guardians and the general public that the safety and welfare of learners remain its highest priority.
Management stated that it is working closely with relevant authorities to restore normalcy and ensure that adequate security measures are in place before academic activities resume.
The Service also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining schools as safe spaces dedicated to learning, personal development and the holistic growth of children.
Officials believe the collaborative efforts of school authorities, security agencies, community leaders and parents will be critical in preventing similar incidents in the future.
The Ghana Police Service is expected to continue investigations into the circumstances surrounding the attack, including the alleged assault on the headmaster and the reported discharge of firearms on the school premises.
Investigators are also expected to establish the full sequence of events leading to the confrontation and identify those responsible for the vandalism and disruption.
The incident at Zohe E.P. Schools therefore highlights the importance of effective conflict resolution mechanisms between schools and surrounding communities before disagreements escalate into violence.
Protecting Learning Environments
As investigations continue, education authorities are hopeful that the swift intervention of the police, together with ongoing stakeholder engagements, will restore calm and allow students and teachers to return to the classroom under secure conditions.
For now, the temporary closure of Zohe E.P. Schools reflects the Ghana Education Service’s determination to prioritise the safety of learners and staff while law enforcement agencies work to establish the facts and ensure accountability for those behind the attack.
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