Students in both public and private schools in Obuasi, Ashanti Region, are set to miss classes for the next two days due to heightened tensions in the gold mining town.
The unrest stems from a violent clash on Saturday, January 18, 2025, between illegal miners and military personnel, following an alleged breach of AngloGold Ashanti’s security fence at one of its mining concessions.
The confrontation resulted in the tragic deaths of at least seven miners, with several others sustaining injuries.
In response to the escalating situation, heavy security has been deployed to the area. However, as a precaution, students in the affected communities have been directed to stay home.
On Sunday morning, tensions escalated further when illegal miners in Obuasi reportedly went on a rampage to protest the deaths of their colleagues during the clash.
As a result, all schools—both public and private—across Obuasi and Obuasi East municipalities have been temporarily closed.
The directive mandates students and teachers to remain at home for two days to ensure their safety and allow tempers to cool.
George Koomson, the Director of Education for the Obuasi Municipality, explained that the decision was taken as a necessary measure to protect the lives of students.
“We can’t guarantee the safety of both learners and teachers, so we’ve agreed that for tomorrow [Monday] and possibly Tuesday, we will not be going to school. The contact hours will be missed and recouping the lost hours will be difficult.”
President Mahama has instructed AngloGold Ashanti (AGA) to cover the medical expenses of the injured individuals while investigations are conducted into the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
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