Accra, Ghana, October 23, 2026: The Medical Women Association of Ghana (MWAG) has pledged to provide medical support to students affected by allegations of sexual misconduct at Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS), as calls grow for the protection and recovery of the students and accountability for anyone found responsible.
In a statement dated Wednesday, October 21, 2026, the association expressed concern over allegations involving the school's headmaster, Zakaria Abdulai, which were brought to public attention through an investigative documentary by journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni.
MWAG called on the government and relevant agencies to ensure that affected students receive confidential medical and psychological care, legal assistance and adequate protection while investigations continue.
The association stressed that the students' identities must be protected and that their education should continue without disruption.
It said it was committed to doing its part by providing medical support to the affected students.
MWAG calls for independent investigations and prosecution
While welcoming administrative measures taken by the Ghana Education Service (GES), MWAG said further action was necessary to establish the facts and ensure accountability.
The association welcomed the directive requiring the Ashanti Regional Director of Education and the Obuasi East Municipal Director of Education to step aside pending investigations. It also noted that Zakaria Abdulai had been interdicted.
However, it called for prompt and independent investigations by the police and relevant child protection agencies, insisting that anyone found culpable should be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The association's position highlights the importance of ensuring that administrative action is accompanied by investigations capable of establishing what happened, whether earlier complaints were handled appropriately and whether any officials failed in their responsibilities.
Association urges stronger school safeguarding measures
MWAG has also called on the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service to strengthen safeguarding policies across schools.
Its recommendations include establishing confidential reporting channels and protecting students who report abuse from victimisation.
It urged parents and caregivers to create safe environments where children can speak openly about abuse and have their concerns taken seriously. Allegations, it said, must be investigated promptly, and students who report abuse must not be blamed or penalised.
The association reiterated its zero-tolerance position on sexual exploitation and violence against women and girls, stressing that schools must be safe environments for students.
Protecting students must extend beyond investigations
The pledge comes amid wider calls for sustained support for students affected by the allegations at Obuasi SHTS.
Beyond establishing the facts and pursuing any necessary legal action, the response must address the students' medical needs, psychological well-being, privacy and continued education.
The protection of their identities is particularly important as public discussion of the case continues. Unnecessary disclosure of identifying details could expose students to stigma, victimisation and further distress.
The allegations involving Zakaria Abdulai remain subject to investigation. Any determination of criminal responsibility must follow due process.
For students and families, however, the immediate priority is access to appropriate care, protection from further harm and assurance that reporting abuse will lead to a meaningful response.
