The Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially lifted its ban on inter-school sports competitions in the Central Region, marking a significant polic
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially lifted its ban on inter-school sports competitions in the Central Region, marking a significant policy reversal following weeks of suspension triggered by student unrest and safety concerns.
The decision, contained in a directive dated March 24, 2026, was signed by the Central Regional Director of Education, Juliette Dufie Otami, after receiving approval from the Director-General of GES.
The move clears the path for second-cycle institutions to resume sporting activities under newly established regulatory guidelines.
Suspension
The suspension of inter-school sports in the region was initially imposed in response to reported incidents of violence, clashes, and general misconduct among students during competitions. Authorities at the time described the situation as a threat to the safety of students, school officials, and spectators.
The ban formed part of broader efforts by GES to restore discipline and ensure order within the school sports calendar, particularly at the senior high school level where inter-school competitions attract large crowds and intense rivalries.
New Guidelines To Ensure Discipline And Safety
Following consultations with key stakeholders—including school authorities, sports coordinators, and regional education officials—GES has now introduced a comprehensive set of guidelines to govern the organisation of inter-school sports.
The new measures are designed to strengthen supervision, enhance safety protocols, and prevent a recurrence of the disturbances that led to the suspension. School heads have been tasked with enforcing these directives strictly.
According to the GES directive, any breach of the new regulations will attract administrative sanctions, signaling a tougher enforcement stance moving forward.
Competitions Set To Resume March 31
Inter-school athletics competitions in the Central Region are scheduled to officially resume from March 31, 2026, ushering in a new phase for school sports in the area.
Heads of Senior High Schools and Senior High Technical Schools have been instructed to familiarise themselves with the guidelines and ensure full compliance before participating in any organised events.
Commitment to Structured School Sports
The Central Regional Directorate of GES has reiterated its commitment to working closely with stakeholders to ensure that school sports are conducted in a safe, disciplined, and orderly environment.
The restoration of competitions is expected to revive sporting activities among students while maintaining stricter oversight, balancing the need for talent development with the imperative of safety and discipline.
A Cautious Return To Competition
While the lifting of the ban has been welcomed by students and school authorities, it comes with a clear warning: the era of unchecked misconduct will not be tolerated.
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