All final-year male students of Bolgatanga Technical Institute (BOTECH) have been directed to vacate the school campus. The Upper East Regional Security Council (REGSEC) issued this order on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. It followed the gathering of credible security intelligence. This information suggested that the students were planning to cause a violent disturbance on campus.
Regional Minister Donatus Akamugri Atanga announced the directive at an emergency student and staff meeting. He stated that some students were preparing for chaos. The goal of the order is to prevent potential crises. It aims to safeguard lives and protect public property. The Minister expressed worry about recurring unrest and property destruction at BOTECH. He believes preventing tensions from growing is crucial.
This incident highlights ongoing challenges with student discipline in Ghana's technical education sector. Such disruptions can impact public finances through property damage. They also disrupt the flow of skilled labor into the economy. Past events at BOTECH suggest a pattern of unrest. For instance, in February 2021, the school closed due to violent disturbances. In August 2022, clashes with security personnel at BOTECH led to another closure.
"We will not allow that to happen. You are hereby directed to leave campus immediately," Minister Atanga told students. He emphasized that the decision was proactive. It was made to prevent serious consequences. These could include injuries or fatalities. "I don’t take delight in punishing people, but if you have called for it, we have to find a way out," he added.
The directive specifically targets third-year male students. Intelligence identified them as the group behind the planned disturbances. Third-year female students and first-year students can remain. Second-year students were already off campus as part of their academic calendar. The Minister warned that not leaving could affect students' ability to sit final exams. He warned of military deployment for enforcement if students did not comply.
The minister urged students to obey the directive to restore calm. He assured that REGSEC is working to identify those responsible. Normal academic activities can resume once the situation is resolved. This evacuation is a temporary measure. It is intended to allow for a swift resolution and prevent further escalation. The school has a history of disruptions. In August 2025, student protests after suspensions led to extensive property destruction. This included disconnecting electricity and setting fire to the library block.