Investigating into the causes and effects of students’ unrest in Ghanaian schools a case study of Adu Gyamfi senior high school in the Sekyere south district, Ashanti region

Abstract

It is not far-fetched that schools play key role in producing effective manpower for the development of states. However, the social challenges encountered by Management in the school organization in Ghana and elsewhere have not been adequately addressed. One of the key challenges in the school organization which needs particular attention by education stakeholders in the country is students’ unrest. The study sought to examine the causes and impacts of students’ unrest in schools. The research methodology was descriptive survey method. It involved a sample size of thirty-seven (37) selected from the population for the collection of data. It included the head of the school, senior housemaster, 4 housemasters, the chief security, 5 teaching staff members, 5 parents and 20 students. In choosing the sample size, the researcher considered time factor and available resources at her disposure. The main instrument for data collection was interview, questionnaire and observation. Qualitative method was employed in the analysis of data. However, quantitative approach was resorted to where appropriate. All ethical issues were duly observed. Findings of the study on the causes of students’ unrest were identified to include poor food supply and catering services and high fee charges. Improvement in students’ welfare, government intervention and effective guidance and counselling among others have been recommended to all stakeholders in education to consider in finding solutions to students’ unrest.