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The Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, has taken swift action following an unannounced visit to Prince of Wales Secondary School, where he uncovered serious security concerns linked to illegal squatters occupying the school’s sea bank property.
During his visit, Minister Sackey expressed deep concern over reports from the school community, highlighting the presence of unauthorised occupants on school land, rising incidents of theft, and illicit activities allegedly facilitated by the squatters. According to the Minister, these activities not only endangered pupils but also stalled the ongoing BADEA-funded fencing project intended to secure the coastline.
Declaring the situation unacceptable, Sackey made an immediate commitment that the Ministry would act without delay.
That promise materialized on June 9, when the Minister dispatched the Coordinator of the Free Quality School Education (FQSE) programme, supported by personnel from the Anti-Drugs Commission, to lead an emergency stakeholder engagement at the school.
The meeting brought together school authorities, representatives of the Old Boys Association, community leaders, and other key stakeholders. The consensus was clear and firm: the illegal structures had to be removed immediately.
Following the engagement, the team proceeded to the site, where they encountered a woman and her infant occupying one of the makeshift structures. Her husband was reportedly absent at the time. Upon demolition of the shack, authorities recovered drugs and money from the premises, further confirming suspicions of criminal activity linked to the occupation.
Officials say the illegal occupants had not only encroached on school property but also exploited the unfenced sea bank as a passageway for unlawful activities, including theft.
Minister Sackey emphasized that school safety remains a top priority under the Free Quality School Education initiative, stressing that every child deserves a secure and conducive learning environment free from criminal interference.
He further assured that the Ministry would continue to collaborate with the Anti-Drugs Commission, law enforcement agencies, and community stakeholders to ensure that those found culpable face the full force of the law.
The Minister also confirmed that the BADEA fencing project will proceed without further obstruction.
