A 14-year-old Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidate, Awudu Gariba, tragically lost his life after collapsing during his final exam on Friday, June 13.
The incident has sparked national concern and renewed conversations about the impact of ongoing healthcare strikes in Ghana.
Awudu, a student of Nnuanua Number 1 Basic School in the Assin South District, reportedly showed signs of illness during Thursday’s exam. However, attempts to seek medical attention at the Adiembra CHPS compound were unsuccessful, as nurses were unavailable due to the ongoing industrial action by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA).
Despite his worsening condition, Awudu returned to the exam hall the following morning, determined to complete his papers. Sadly, he collapsed during the first session. He was rushed to the Assin Fosu Polyclinic but was pronounced dead on arrival.
Medical professionals believe that the young student’s death could have been avoided with timely medical care. The tragedy underscores the real human cost of unresolved labour disputes in Ghana’s health sector.
Confirming the incident, Assin South District Education Director, Isaac Opoku, told Channel One: “Arrangements are being made to inform Awudu’s parents about the tragic incident.”
As investigations continue, this heartbreaking event has intensified public pressure on the government to address the demands of health workers and restore essential services across the country.
