NTC petitioned over Nyinahin Catholic SHS teacher-student altercation

The National Teaching Council has been asked to investigate the professional conduct of a teacher involved in a reported altercation with a female student of Nyinahin Catholic Senior High School.

The petition was filed by a coalition of 11 civil society organisations working in education, child rights, gender equality, peace and security, and social accountability.

The incident involves Mr Eric Buenortey Akpafio, a teacher at the school, and a final-year female student.

A video of the confrontation has circulated widely online, drawing public concern and renewed debate about discipline, safeguarding and teacher conduct in schools.

In a statement issued on Monday, June 15, the coalition said the matter falls within the statutory responsibilities of the NTC.

The groups said the Council is mandated to regulate teacher licensing, professional standards, disciplinary accountability and ethical conduct within the teaching profession.

They argue that the incident raises questions that go beyond the immediate confrontation between the teacher and the student.

According to them, it touches on learner safety, public confidence in teachers and the duty of schools to remain safe spaces for teaching and learning.

The coalition is asking the NTC to conduct a full professional inquiry into the alleged conduct of the teacher.

It wants the Council to determine whether the incident amounts to professional misconduct under the Education Regulatory Bodies Act, 2020, Act 1023, the National Teachers’ Standards and other applicable safeguarding obligations.

The petitioners also want the NTC to assess whether the teacher remains fit to practise.

They said that assessment should include issues of ethical conduct, professional judgment, learner protection and the duty of care imposed on teachers.

The groups further urged the Council to apply appropriate disciplinary sanctions if wrongdoing is established.

They also called for the outcome of the investigation to be made public in a timely manner to strengthen confidence in teacher regulation.

The coalition said teacher conduct must be consistent with professional and ethical standards, especially in environments involving minors and vulnerable learners.

It also called for stronger education across the teaching profession on non-violent and child-centred approaches to discipline.

The groups said the NTC should use the incident as an opportunity to reinforce safeguarding compliance and promote de-escalatory methods in schools.

They expressed confidence that the Council would treat the petition with urgency in the interest of protecting learners and preserving the integrity of the teaching profession.