The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has issued a firm directive to the National Inspectorate Board to strictly enforce the ban on mobile phone use in schools, warning that the growing trend of phone-aided exam malpractice is undermining educational integrity.
Addressing the governing boards of the National Inspectorate Board and the National Curriculum and Assessment Board in Accra, the Minister called for stronger measures to curb indiscipline, including the use of mobile phones on school premises despite longstanding prohibitions.
“Phone cheating during exams is becoming common, sometimes aided by examiners and supervisors. We must regulate who is allowed to carry phones into exam halls,” he cautioned.
Mr. Iddrisu also expressed grave concern over reports of students carrying weapons to school, describing it as a “serious threat to school safety.”
He urged school authorities to be vigilant and take decisive action to protect students and maintain order.
“It’s not just about a student holding a weapon, but the danger it poses to innocent peers who are still developing their careers and futures,” the Minister emphasized.
He called on parents to collaborate closely with school administrators in upholding discipline and ensuring a secure learning environment.
In outlining a broader vision for education reform, the Minister revealed plans to introduce artificial intelligence and coding into the pre-tertiary curriculum from the primary level.
He also announced upcoming initiatives aimed at instilling patriotism, life skills, and civic responsibility among students. Stressing the importance of foundational learning, Mr. Iddrisu underscored the need for a standardized textbook policy and called for renewed focus on literacy, numeracy, national values, and social development.
“We must prioritize foundational learning, national culture and values, basic life skills, and emphasize both numeracy and literacy,” he concluded.
