The Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially confirmed the death of seven students from Lawra Senior High School in the Upper West Region, following a tragic canoe accident on the Black Volta River.
According to a press statement issued by GES, the incident occurred on the morning of Saturday, 14th June 2025, during a routine jogging exercise by members of the school’s cadet corps.
Sixteen second-year students were engaged in the activity when they arrived at the banks of the Black Volta near Dikpe. Ten of them attempted to cross the river in a canoe, which tragically capsized midway. Seven students; five girls and two boys; drowned.
The deceased have been identified as Loise Kaati, Florence Kandera, Joyce Kuzare, Evelyn Batumatu, Munira Abu, Maxwell Dampourideme, and Alfred Foyji. Three students were rescued and are currently receiving psychological and emotional support.
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The bodies of the deceased were recovered with assistance from the Ghana Police Service, local search teams, and members of the Lawra community. One of the victims, a Muslim student, was buried the same day in accordance with Islamic rites. The remaining students are expected to be laid to rest on Monday, 16th June 2025, in collaboration with their families.
While investigations into the incident are ongoing, GES has assured the public that necessary measures are being put in place to prevent future occurrences.
“The safety and well-being of our students is of utmost importance,” the statement read. “Lawra SHS remains a safe learning environment, and steps are being taken to strengthen safety protocols.”
The GES also expressed gratitude to the school’s management, the regional and district education directorates, the Lawra community, and rescue teams for their swift and dedicated response.
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“Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families, the Lawra SHS community, and all affected by this heartbreaking tragedy,” the statement concluded.
Below is a copy of the press release:
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/Emmanuel Mensah
