GES Ghana: Sexual Harassment Dismissal Policy Is Absolute

• The Ghana Education Service (GES) has declared that any staff member found guilty of sexual harassment will be dismissed.
• Dr. Issahaque Munwaru, Deputy Director-General at GES, confirmed this policy during an update on an investigation at Obuasi Senior High and Technical School.
• A substantiated case of sexual harassment is sufficient grounds for employment termination, regardless of an apology.
• The GES employs a four-tier disciplinary structure, with decisions subject to review by higher authorities.
• An investigative committee is currently examining allegations at Obuasi Senior High and Technical School, ensuring a fair hearing for all parties.

The Service's stance is clear: a finding of sexual harassment leads directly to dismissal, irrespective of any subsequent apology from the accused individual.

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has unequivocally stated its commitment to addressing sexual harassment within schools, warning that any staff member found responsible for such misconduct will face immediate dismissal. This firm position was articulated by Dr. Issahaque Munwaru, the Deputy Director-General for Quality and Access at the GES, during an interview on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Monday, November 2. Dr. Munwaru emphasized that a substantiated case of sexual harassment constitutes sufficient grounds for the termination of employment for the individual involved.

This declaration came as Dr. Munwaru provided an update on an ongoing investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct at Obuasi Senior High and Technical School. The GES headquarters views all allegations of sexual misconduct with utmost seriousness, underscoring the institution's dedication to maintaining a safe educational environment. The Service's stance is clear: a finding of sexual harassment leads directly to dismissal, irrespective of any subsequent apology from the accused individual.

The Ghana Education Service operates under a structured four-tier disciplinary system designed to ensure thorough and fair proceedings. Each level within this framework allows for decisions to be reviewed by the next higher authority, providing a robust mechanism for oversight and accountability. This multi-layered approach aims to guarantee that all parties receive a fair hearing before any conclusions are reached regarding allegations of misconduct.

Dr. Munwaru highlighted that the GES's position on sexual harassment is absolute, stating that "One on sexual harassment is equal to dismissal." This underscores the severity with which the Service treats such offenses. Furthermore, the GES headquarters retains the authority to review the recommendations put forth by school-level committees, and can even alter their stance if deemed necessary, ensuring a consistent and rigorous application of disciplinary measures across all educational institutions under its purview.

A dedicated committee established by the Ghana Education Service has visited the Obuasi Senior High and Technical School to investigate the allegations of sexual misconduct. This committee is tasked with engaging all relevant parties involved in the case before compiling and submitting its findings. As part of its investigative mandate, the committee is expected to interview those who have made the allegations, meticulously examine any available video evidence, and ensure that every individual's perspective is heard.

While the investigative process is underway, Dr. Munwaru did not specify a definitive timeline for the committee to conclude its work, indicating a need to ascertain if the investigators require additional time. The allegations at Obuasi Senior High and Technical School have brought to the forefront significant concerns regarding student safeguarding and the crucial responsibility of educational authorities to protect learners from sexual abuse and various forms of misconduct. The GES has publicly assured that it will carefully consider the committee’s recommendations and proceed with the necessary disciplinary actions in strict adherence to its established procedures.

Lawyers advising educational institutions or staff in Ghana must note the Ghana Education Service's unequivocal stance on sexual harassment leading to dismissal, ensuring internal policies and disciplinary procedures align with this strict position. Compliance officers should review their organizations' safeguarding protocols and investigation processes to mitigate risks associated with such allegations and potential employment termination.

Source: Original reporting via Albert Kuzor