Justice and Compensation Demanded for Teacher Stabbed in the Eye

Thomas Tanko Musah

The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) is demanding justice and compensation for Ishmael Famous, a teacher at Asuoso Senior High School in Offinso North, Ashanti Region, who was brutally attacked by a student last year. The incident, which left Mr. Famous permanently scarred and questioning his profession, has sparked widespread outrage and concern over the safety of teachers in Ghana.

According to GNAT General Secretary Thomas Tanko Musah, Mr. Famous deserves justice and compensation for the injuries he sustained while performing his lawful duty.¹ The union is adamant that the teacher's injury warrants Workman's Compensation, not only for the physical damage but also for the emotional toll the incident has taken on Mr. Famous.

The union's demand goes beyond the police prosecuting the student responsible for the attack. GNAT is also calling out the Ghana Education Service (GES) and the Ministry of Education for their silence and inaction in addressing the situation. Mr. Musah expressed deep concern over the failure of these institutions to support Mr. Famous with his mounting medical bills, stating that "the lack of response from the Ministry is troubling".

GNAT is rallying behind Mr. Famous, and the union has made it clear that they will not sit idly by if their demands are ignored. Mr. Musah warned that "if the employer fails to take action, we will have no choice but to advise ourselves".

The incident has raised concerns over the safety of teachers in Ghana and the need for institutions to take responsibility for protecting their employees. As GNAT fights for justice and compensation for Mr. Famous, the union is also advocating for a safer and more supportive environment for all teachers in Ghana.