BY Grace Zigah
The headmaster of Dzodze-Penyi Senior High School (SHS) in the Ketu North District of the Volta Region, Joshua Yao Vidzro, has been directed to step aside from his duties following serious allegations of sexual misconduct involving female students.
The directive, issued by the Ghana Education Service (GES) Regional Office in Ho on 6 December 2025, is intended to ensure a transparent investigation and prevent any interference in the process.
According to the GES, the move is administrative and does not imply guilt.
The letter instructs Vidzro to hand over all official duties, records, and school property to the Ketu North Municipal Director of Education by Monday, 8 December 2025, and vacate the school premises.
He is also barred from contacting the students or any witnesses while the investigation is ongoing.
Allegations Surface
The allegations against Vidzro involve two students. A final-year student, whose identity is being protected, was confirmed pregnant by St. Anthony Hospital in Dzodze.
She claims that the headmaster had sexual intercourse with her against her will. In another case, a 14-year-old first-year student alleged that the headmaster lured her to a hotel in Dzodze and sexually assaulted her.
The senior headmistress, Eva Kueliho, confirmed the reports to Fafaa 100.3 FM, noting that the school had already begun internal inquiries.
She emphasized that the administration is cooperating fully with law enforcement and the GES in handling the matter.
Headmaster Denies Misconduct
Joshua Vidzro has denied all allegations, insisting that they are part of a deliberate attempt by some individuals to tarnish his reputation.
He reportedly swore by the ancestral stool god Togbi Satsike to affirm his innocence.
Nevertheless, he stated he is willing to undergo DNA testing to establish paternity if required and is prepared to accept responsibility if proven otherwise.
However, he did not deny having an amorous relationship with the said student.
Audio Evidence And Wider Concerns
Fafaa 100.3 FM obtained an audio recording of a conversation between the pregnant student and the embattled headmaster.
In the recording, the student informed Vidzro of her pregnancy, while he postponed addressing the matter, citing attendance at a funeral.
Further investigation revealed that some students believe sexual harassment is widespread within the school.
They alleged that certain hotels in Dzodze are used by some teachers, including the headmaster, as well as a few Customs and Immigration officers, to exploit vulnerable students.
Students claim these activities have negatively affected academic performance and contributed to an atmosphere of fear.
Investigations Underway
The National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) and the Ghana Police Service are reportedly leading the criminal investigation.
Meanwhile, the Ketu North Municipal Director of Education has been tasked with the administration of Dzodze-Penyi SHS until the case is resolved.
The GES emphasized that stepping aside is a precautionary measure to ensure the integrity of investigations and maintain institutional accountability.
