Dr. Joseph Wemakor advocates for non-violent discipline in education at Weija Gbawe GNAT Local Conference

In a poignant address at the Weija Gbawe Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) Local Conference on March 18, 2025, Dr. Joseph Kobla Wemakor, Executive Director of Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG), called for an urgent shift away from corporal punishment in schools.

His powerful message struck a chord with educators, dignitaries, and stakeholders, as he emphasized the need for safe and respectful learning environments.

“Corporal punishment is not only harmful to students but also detrimental to the very fabric of our educational system,” Dr. Wemakor asserted.

“It is time for us to adopt non-violent discipline methods that foster respect, cooperation, and a positive learning atmosphere. We must create spaces where both teachers and students feel safe and valued.”

Speaking to a packed audience at the ITS Conference Room within the Weija Gbawe Municipal Assembly Compound, Dr. Wemakor highlighted the negative impact of punitive practices on student behavior and teacher efficacy.

“Fear does not translate to learning; it breeds resentment and disengagement,” he stated, urging educators to embrace alternatives that promote healthy behavioural management.

His remarks were part of a broader conversation at the conference, which focused on enhancing teacher support and improving educational conditions.

Dr. Wemakor’s advocacy for systemic change resonated deeply, reinforcing the need for both governmental and community support to implement positive strategies within schools.

The conference, opened by outgoing chairman Mr. Edward Nimako, gathered a diverse group of educators and advocates who shared a common goal: to elevate educational standards and empower teachers. The keynote address was initially delivered by Julius Sarpei, the Public Relations Officer for the Gbawe Weija Constituency, on behalf of Hon. Jerry Ahmed Shaib, who spoke about the importance of valuing educators in light of the pressing challenges facing the education sector.

As the conference transitioned to the election of a new leadership team, Dr. Wemakor’s impassioned plea for a shift away from corporal punishment and towards positive discipline methods underscored the urgency for action.

Empowered by his message, attendees are now poised to advocate for changes that prioritize the well-being of both teachers and students.

The newly elected officers include Edward Nimako as Chairman, Felix Dzanku as Secretary, and a dedicated team committed to fostering a more supportive educational landscape.

Dr. Wemakor concluded his speech with a call to action: “Let us come together to create a nurturing environment that advances the cause of education in Ghana. We owe it to our teachers and, most importantly, to our children.”

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