The former Dean of Students at the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Prof. Eugene Darteh, has called for the reintroduction of Moral and Civic Education to address rising indiscipline in schools.
He disclosed that disciplinary cases in second-cycle institutions increased by 16% between 2020 and 2023, with more than 40% of SHS students reportedly experiencing bullying. Prof. Darteh attributed the trend to weak moral training at home, declining teacher discipline, and the negative influence of social media.
Speaking at the 2025 Feast of St. Augustine celebration in Accra, on Thursday, August 29, 2025, organised by the St. Augustine’s Past Students Union (APSU), Prof. Darteh described the growing culture of impunity among students as “worrying” and called for closer collaboration between parents and schools.
He stressed that Moral and Civic Education, if reintroduced, should go beyond being just another examinable subject.
“Education is not only about passing exams. We must teach values that influence behaviour and character. If we want to bring back Moral and Civic Education, it should focus on mentorship, role modeling, and shared life experiences, not just rote learning,” he said.
Prof. Darteh also criticised existing disciplinary measures in schools as outdated and ineffective. He proposed reforms such as strengthening guidance and counseling units, involving alumni, and instituting a National Discipline Charter to promote values and civic responsibility.
“Punishment should reform, not humiliate. Too often, those punished are not the real perpetrators. Sanctions must target the actual offenders and ensure they personally take responsibility for their actions,” he added.
He further emphasised that discipline must be applied fairly by both parents and schools if morality and order are to be restored in the education system.
