Okuapeman and Mount Sinai SHSs closed after violent student clashes

Violent clashes between students of Okuapeman Senior High School and Mount Sinai Senior High School in the Akuapem North Municipality have led to the temporary closure of both institutions. The unrest, which occurred in the early hours of September 2, 2026, resulted in six students being injured and significant damage to school infrastructure, including classrooms, dormitories, a Visual Arts studio, and teachers' offices. Some facilities were reportedly set on fire, and examination materials were lost.

The Eastern Regional Security Council (REGSEC) ordered the closures to restore calm and facilitate investigations. More than ten students have been arrested, and police are actively searching for other participants. Eastern Regional Police Commander DCOP Joseph Owusu-Bempah warned students that attacking officers or participating in mob violence would result in criminal prosecution, stating, “We cannot arrest the entire school, but we know the ringleaders.”

Local officials, including Akuapem North MP Sammi Awuku, have called for accountability, suggesting that parents of the involved students should contribute to the costs of repairing the extensive damage. The incident has also prompted calls from education experts for improved security systems within senior high schools to prevent such escalations.