NCCE Citizenship Week Visit Highlights Impact of Bawku Conflict on Education

The Bawku Municipal Office of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has expressed concern over the devastating impact of the protracted Bawku chieftaincy conflict on education following a visit to Aminiya Islamic School as part of the 2026 Citizenship Week Celebration.

The visit, which took place, was aimed at engaging students on their rights and responsibilities both offline and online under the Citizenship Week program. The NCCE delegation, led by the Municipal Director, Mr. Daniel Baya Laar, and accompanied by Ms. Munira Yussif, was met with a stark reality that underscored the effect of the ongoing insecurity on teaching and learning.

Although all teachers were present and actively performing their duties, only two students were in attendance at the time of the visit. Teachers and the students explained that many learners had transferred to schools in safer communities, while others had left Bawku entirely due to security concerns. They also disclosed that the neighboring Gingande Basic School had relocated its remaining pupils to Daduri Catholic School to ensure their safety.

Despite the difficult circumstances, the NCCE encouraged the students to remain committed to their education and continue to uphold responsible citizenship both in their communities and online.

Speaking during the engagement, Mr. Jamal, a teacher at Aminiya Islamic School, revealed that a philanthropist had provided school uniforms and school bags to students who chose to remain in the school. He added that teachers had been engaging parents and community members to reassure them of the safety of their children, particularly Basic Six pupils, in an effort to encourage their return to school.

According to him, community watchdog groups have also been supporting efforts to provide security assurances for both students and teachers, enabling teaching and learning to continue despite the prevailing challenges.

Mr. Daniel Baya Laar commended the two Junior High School students for their resilience and determination to continue attending school amid the conflict. He also praised the teachers for their unwavering dedication and sacrifices in ensuring that the remaining students continue to receive quality education. He, however, advised both teachers and students to always prioritize their safety while pursuing academic activities.

The visit highlighted the urgent need for collective efforts to sustain education in conflict-affected communities such as Bawku. It also reaffirmed the importance of ensuring that every child has access to quality education regardless of the prevailing security challenges.