CHASS urges sanctions for student indiscipline at 64th national conference

The Conference of Heads of Second Cycle Schools (CHASS) has expressed grave concern over the rising trend of indiscipline among students and staff across senior high schools. In a communique issued at the conclusion of its 64th Annual National Conference held in the Volta Region, the association formally condemned these behaviors and pledged its support for the application of fair but firm sanctions against offenders to maintain order and academic integrity. Beyond behavioral issues, the conference focused heavily on the safety and management of educational institutions. CHASS highlighted the necessity of recruiting better-trained security personnel to protect campus environments and urged the clarification of procurement policies. The school heads also advocated for the resumption of Parent-Teacher Associations to support school governance, arguing that parental involvement is crucial for effective oversight. Addressing the financial health of schools, CHASS raised the alarm regarding persistent delays in government funding for the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy. The association urged the government to settle all outstanding payments and address challenges related to student nutrition. Specific calls were made for urgent reforms to the food supply chain and the implementation of VAT waivers on essential school supplies to reduce mounting operational costs. While acknowledging government efforts to improve secondary education through various initiatives, CHASS maintained that more must be done to address infrastructure gaps and the transition toward a unified academic calendar. The association emphasized that resolving these systemic challenges, ranging from resource allocation to student conduct, remains essential for the long-term success of the nation's education sector.