The Gambaga College of Education, located in the North-East Region, has been provided with round-the-clock security by the Ghana Police Service in response to recent attacks on students within the community.
Strengthening Security Following Recent Attacks
This proactive measure follows an unfortunate incident where eight male students were attacked by unidentified gunmen. The attack led to the tragic death of one student, while another sustained gunshot injuries. To ensure the safety of all students, a dedicated team of police officers has been deployed to patrol the area, enabling students to carry out their activities without fear.
GTEC’s Fact-Finding Mission
The Director-General of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), Professor Ahmed Jinapor, led a delegation to the college on a fact-finding visit on Friday 14th March 2025. As part of the visit, the team engaged with the Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) and the college management to gather further insights into the incident. Additionally, Professor Jinapor visited the injured student at the hospital and paid a courtesy call on the Overlord of the Mamprugu Kingdom, Nayiri, Naa Bohagu Mahami Abdulai Sheriga, and his elders. He also took the opportunity to interact with the student body to reassure them of ongoing efforts to enhance their safety.
Investigation and Ongoing Efforts
Superintendent Francis Adjei Brobbey, the Gambaga District Police Commander, assured that investigations are actively underway to bring the perpetrators to justice. He stated, “We have put in place informants to aid in identifying and apprehending the culprits.”
The first attack occurred on a Friday at approximately 7:30 p.m. when gunmen shot a level 400 student engaged in an off-campus teaching practice program. The injured student received emergency medical care at the Baptist Medical Centre in Nalerigu before being transferred to the Bolgatanga Regional Hospital for further treatment and eventual discharge.
Less than a month later, on March 12, 2025, at around 11 p.m., another incident occurred when a group of final-year students returning from a football match was ambushed. Two gunmen opened fire on eight students, resulting in one fatality and another student sustaining serious injuries. The injured student is currently in stable condition and receiving treatment at the Baptist Medical Centre.
College Management’s Response
The Principal of the college, Mr. Kassim Korah Nantomah, emphasized the institution’s commitment to student safety. He acknowledged the severity of the recent events, stating, “If such incidents continue, it will tarnish the reputation of the college and deter potential students.” He assured that management is working closely with security agencies to ensure the protection of students both on and off campus.
No Shutdown of the College
Professor Jinapor reassured the student body that despite the unfortunate incidents, the college would not be shut down. He encouraged students to remain calm and urged stakeholders to work together to preserve the institution’s image, cautioning that negative publicity could affect student enrollment and the college’s long-term sustainability.
Call for Vigilance and Community Cooperation
In addressing the students, Professor Jinapor advised them to remain security-conscious and avoid behaviors that might compromise their safety. He also called on the local community and the college management to foster a safe and supportive environment.
Furthermore, he announced that GTEC, in collaboration with the college management, would cover the medical expenses of the injured student and provide support to the bereaved family to ensure a dignified burial for the deceased student.
GTEC remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all students and will continue to work closely with relevant authorities to maintain a secure learning environment at Gambaga College of Education.