Banter or Bigotry PRESEC’S Response to Serwaa Amihere

A former student of the prestigious Presbyterian Boys’ Senior High School (Presec) has questioned the school’s decision to issue an official statement condemning comments made by media personality Serwaa Amihere, labeling Presec as a “breeding ground for homosexuals”. The old student argues that the remark was a harmless joke, part of a long-standing tradition of lighthearted banter between rival schools in Ghana.

According to reports, Serwaa Amihere had made the comment in a video, which sparked widespread outrage and prompted Presec’s management to release a statement describing the remarks as “false, reckless, and deeply offensive”. However, the old student believes that the school’s response was unnecessary and that Serwaa’s apology should have been enough to put the matter to rest.

The old student points out that such banter is a common feature of high school culture in Ghana, citing examples of other schools being jokingly referred to in derogatory terms, such as Adisco students being called “Wee Boys” and Mfantsipim students being labeled “Jon Boys”. Presec itself has engaged in similar banter with rival schools, the old student notes.

Serwaa Amihere has since apologized for her comments, saying she did not intend to malign the institution or its students. According to MyJoyOnline, she acknowledged the hurt and concern her comments had generated among old students, parents, and the wider public.

The incident has sparked a debate about the limits of acceptable banter and the need for sensitivity in public discourse. While some have defended Serwaa’s right to free speech, others have condemned her comments as homophobic and hurtful.

Presec’s management has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the school’s values and protecting the dignity of its students.

Call or WhatsApp +233 20 2190 250 and share your story.

Author: Korkor Anumu