By Boakye Stephen, Kumasi, Ghana | Reporting for Ghanaian News Canada | July 14,2026
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has directed the temporary closure of all public and private schools within the Yendi Municipality of the Northern Region to allow students, teachers and other staff to participate in mourning activities following the passing of the late overlord of Dagbon, Ndan Yaa-Naa Abukari II.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, the GES announced that the closure took effect from midday on Monday, July 13, and will remain in force until Thursday, July 16.
Academic activities are expected to resume on Friday, July 17.
The Service explained that the decision was taken after consultations with key stakeholders, including the Northern Regional Director of Education, the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service, the Yendi Municipal Chief Executive and the Gbewaa Palace.
According to the GES, the temporary suspension of academic activities was necessary to enable members of the school community to participate in funeral rites and observe the traditional mourning period in honour of the late Dagbon monarch.
The Service urged students, teachers and non-teaching staff within the municipality to respect the mourning period while expressing appreciation to parents, school authorities and other stakeholders for their cooperation.
The Yendi Municipal Chief Executive, Muniru Sogri, had earlier confirmed the closure, explaining that the decision was approved by government to allow residents, including students and education workers, to take part in activities marking the passing of the Dagbon overlord.
“Following the demise of the King of Dagbon, the overlord, Yaa-Naa Abukari II, a decision was taken to mourn the death of the King. Public schools and also private schools have to close down,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the Dagbon Traditional Council has announced that the third-day Islamic prayers for the late Yaa-Naa Abukari II will be held at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi on Thursday, July 16, at 10:00 a.m.
The Council has invited members of the public to join the prayers and offer their respects during the mourning period.
The late Yaa-Naa Abukari II served as the overlord of Dagbon, one of Ghana’s most historically significant traditional kingdoms, with Yendi serving as the seat of the Dagbon traditional authority.
The temporary closure of schools reflects the importance of traditional institutions in Ghanaian society, particularly during major cultural and ceremonial events involving traditional leadership.
Commentary | Boakye Stephen
Traditional authorities continue to play an important role in Ghana’s cultural identity and social organisation. While maintaining academic continuity remains essential, recognising significant cultural moments through respectful participation can strengthen community bonds and preserve Ghana’s rich heritage.
