An inter-schools sporting event at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi was briefly disrupted after a clash broke out among Senior High School (SHS) students, resulting in damage to seating at the facility. The incident occurred during the ongoing Inter-Schools (Inter-Co) competition in the Ashanti Region.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that tensions rose among groups of students supporting their respective schools as various sporting activities were underway. What began as verbal exchanges reportedly escalated into a physical confrontation, causing panic in parts of the stands. In the process, several stadium seats were damaged as students attempted to flee or confront one another.
Security personnel stationed at the stadium, together with officials of the competition and school authorities, quickly intervened to restore calm. The situation was brought under control within a short time, allowing other students and spectators to move to safety. No serious injuries were officially reported, though the incident caused concern among organizers and parents present at the venue.
Organizers of the inter-schools competition expressed disappointment over the disruption, stressing that the games are designed to promote sportsmanship, unity, and healthy competition among students. They reminded participants that such events are meant to showcase talent and discipline, not violence or destructive behavior.
The Ashanti Regional Education Directorate has indicated that it will review reports from the incident and collaborate with school authorities to identify students involved in the clash. Appropriate disciplinary measures are expected to be taken in line with Ghana Education Service regulations to deter similar incidents in the future.
Management of the Baba Yara Sports Stadium has also confirmed that an assessment of the damaged seats will be carried out to determine the extent of repairs required. Stadium officials emphasized the importance of protecting public facilities, noting that damage to infrastructure affects not only sporting events but also the broader community that relies on the venue.
The incident has reignited discussions about student conduct at large public events, with calls for stronger supervision, improved crowd control, and increased education on discipline and conflict resolution. Parents, teachers, and school administrators have been urged to reinforce positive behavior and responsibility among students attending inter-school competitions.
As investigations continue, authorities are appealing for calm and cooperation from all schools involved, emphasizing that inter-schools sporting activities should remain platforms for friendship, talent development, and national pride rather than disorder.
Source: Thepressradio.com
