According to the Cambridge Dictionary, "peace" refers to a state of tranquility or quietness, often associated with the absence of conflict or disturbance. It can also denote freedom from disturbance and the presence of harmony. "Security," on the other hand, typically refers to being free from danger or threat. This concept encompasses various aspects, including physical safety, emotional stability, and the protection of resources or rights. Together, "peace and security" convey the idea of a stable and safe environment in which individuals and communities can thrive without fear of conflict or harm.

Recently, a tragic incident occurred involving a senior high school student who lost his life shortly after the WASSCE examination on September 3, 2024. This heartbreaking event has sent shockwaves through our communities, serving as a poignant reminder of the urgent need to prioritize peace and security on our school campuses, from senior high schools to tertiary institutions. Our children, brothers and sisters deserve an atmosphere where they can learn, grow, socialize, and thrive physically and spiritually without fear.

Understanding the Crisis

We must collectively embrace the reality that the safety of our children, brothers and sisters in school is paramount. This incident underscores not only the immediate need for action but also reflects deeper societal issues, including a lack of discipline, erosion of moral values, inadequate conflict resolution skills, and the absence of virtues. We must confront these challenges head-on to create a nurturing educational environment characterized by unity, forgiveness, solidarity, love, peace, and security.

Why is it important to have a safe learning environment in our Ghanaian schools and societies globally? Fundamentally, education is the cornerstone of our society, and schools should be sanctuaries for learning and development. However, when violence infiltrates these spaces, it disrupts the educational process and instills fear and anxiety in students, teachers, and parents alike. The safety of our children must be paramount, and achieving this will require a collective responsibility involving every stakeholder in the education sector to create conducive and welcoming learning environments.

The roles of stakeholders in promoting peace and security on our school campuses are crucial and outlined as follows:

1. Minister of Education and Ghana Education Service (GES): They must implement strong safety policies in schools, conduct regular teacher training on conflict resolution and mental health awareness, establish clear reporting protocols for violence, and hire trained counselors. Awareness campaigns should aim to destigmatize mental health, while peer support programs can strengthen connections among students. Integrating conflict resolution into the curriculum will further foster a harmonious environment.

2. Parents and Guardians: They play a vital role in shaping their children's behavior and attitudes. It is essential to maintain open communication about the importance of respect, empathy, and conflict resolution, fostering values that promote love, tolerance, and understanding. Engaging in dialogue will create an atmosphere where children feel comfortable discussing their feelings and experiences. Parents should also liaise with school authorities build a good relationship with them to understand and advocate for necessary safety measures.

3. Teachers: Educators are at the forefront of student interactions and must be equipped to identify signs of distress or conflict. They should create a supportive classroom environment where students feel safe expressing their concerns and encourage peer mediation programs to empower students to resolve conflicts amicably.

4. School Administrators: Headmasters and headmistresses must prioritize safety by fostering a culture of openness and trust within their schools. Regular safety drills, workshops, and community engagement initiatives will help build a strong sense of community and vigilance among students and staff.

5. Peace Council and Ghana Police Service: Collaboration between educational institutions and law enforcement is essential. The police can provide training on safety protocols and conduct workshops on conflict resolution. Establishing a visible police presence on campuses will deter potential violence and reassure students and parents. If we have the presence of police security presence in our financial institutions, embassies, protecting political leaders, seat of governments, etc. then there it is indispensable for the children or students of our beloved country, Ghana.

Practical Solutions for Promoting Safety

To effectively promote a safer school environment for peace and security, I recommend implementing the following ten tangible solutions:

1. Peer Mediation Programs: The GES should establish programs to train students to mediate conflicts among their peers, fostering a culture of dialogue and understanding. Collaborating with peace and conflict resolution experts and experienced community leaders can enhance this initiative.

2. Create Safe Spaces: Designate areas within schools where students can discuss their problems and seek help.

3. Conflict Resolution Programs: Implement programs teaching students how to resolve conflicts peacefully. Workshops and peer mediation initiatives can empower students to handle disputes constructively.

4. Mental Health Support Units: Providing access to counseling services for students can address underlying issues that may lead to violence. Schools should prioritize mental health awareness and create supportive environments for students seeking help.

5. Promoting Positive Discipline: Implement disciplinary measures focusing on guidance and development rather than punishment, as emphasized in Proverbs 22:6 (NIV): “Train a child in the way he should go, and even when he is old he will not depart from it.” This highlights the importance of nurturing and guiding our children.

6. Encouraging Student Participation: Involve students in decision-making processes related to school policies and activities to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility.

7. Biblical and Quranic Guidance on Discipline: The Bible and Quran provide wisdom on child discipline. Proverbs 13:24 (NIV) reminds us, “Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.” Similarly, Surah Al-Isra (17:31) advises against killing children out of fear of poverty, emphasizing the sanctity of life. These teachings urge parents and educators to guide rather than punish children, returning to the ancient paths of nurturing youth, as reflected in Jeremiah (16:16).

8. Community Engagement: Schools should actively engage with the local community to foster a sense of belonging and support. Organizing events that bring together students, parents, and educators to discuss safety and security issues will strengthen bonds within the neighborhood.

9. Implement Security Checks: Establish police security on campuses to conduct checks on students' bags and uniforms before entering school premises, including boarding houses. This proactive measure can prevent the entry of harmful items and promote a safer environment.

10. Safety Infrastructure and Visibility: Invest in security measures such as surveillance cameras, well-lit areas, and controlled access points to enhance physical safety on school campuses. Regular safety audits can help identify and address vulnerabilities.

In conclusion, I appeal to all stakeholders and patriotic citizens to heed this clarion call to action. The safety of our children is a shared responsibility that requires the commitment of everyone in Ghana.

Alumnus of University of Cape Coast (UCC) 

A students of Sociology of Peace and Security

Lodo Joshua Kojo