Involve PTAs to address sexual harassment in schools 

A critical viewpoint on the function of Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) in guaranteeing child safety and upholding discipline in Ghanaian schools is highlighted in the statement made by Dr. Freda Prempeh, the former Deputy Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Protection.

According to the supporters of this viewpoint active PTA participation bridges the gap between parents and school administrations and acts as a crucial oversight mechanism. 

They strongly believe that parents may better monitor school environments, support guidance and counselling, and hold staff members accountable to the Ghana Education Service (GES) code of conduct when they are involved in the basic and second-cycle school activities. 

When school administration functions without external supervision, sexual abuse, exploitation, and indiscipline may result. This transparency is thought to be a crucial deterrent.

However, some educational experts point out that although strong PTAs are helpful, more than just parental supervision is needed to prevent deeply rooted problems like sexual misconduct and moral degeneration. 

This viewpoint emphasises that the main instruments required to punish perpetrators and discourage future abuse are institutional enforcement, thorough investigations, and strong legal prosecution by state authorities rather than only school-level committees.

Furthermore, detractors frequently point out that if educational rules do not clearly specify the boundaries of oversight, an excessive reliance on PTAs may cause conflict with school administration.

A strong judicial and administrative proceedings shield victims from ongoing pain and intimidation, discourage potential offenders, and stop wrongdoing from becoming the norm. 

In order to maintain high enrollment and completion rates among female students in basic and senior high schools, there should be strict implementation of the GES code of conduct to reassure families that schools are safe places.

Although legal analysts and administrative specialists note that speed is crucial, it must be carefully balanced with thoroughness and due process because hurried investigations might result in procedural mistakes that could lead to unfair sanctions.

Therefore, a comprehensive solution necessitates proactive measures like mandatory background checks and professional ethics training for educators.

The Spectator stresses the need to end sexual exploitation in schools while highlighting the continuous debate over the most effective ways for institutions to provide both prompt justice and legally sound results.

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