The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a statement clarifying its position on a reported partnership between the National Council of Parent-Teacher Associations (NCPTA) and Prospectus Ghana Limited. The GES stated that the NCPTA has not been mandated, appointed, or authorised to represent it or enter into commercial agreements on behalf of the GES, public schools, parents, or students. This clarification aims to prevent any misunderstanding and protect parents and students from unapproved financial commitments.
The GES also clarified the role of Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs), explaining that they operate at the individual school level and engage directly with local school authorities on matters concerning learner development and school welfare. The Service stressed that PTAs function strictly at the individual school level, working directly with local school authorities. This clarification is necessary to distinguish between the roles of PTAs and the NCPTA.
The GES further stated that it does not recognise a national PTA structure with the authority to issue directives, negotiate sales arrangements, or represent parents and schools under the GES. The Service emphasised that the GES does not have a national PTA structure empowered to issue directives, negotiate sales arrangements, or represent all parents and schools under the Service. This clarification aims to avoid confusion and ensure that all stakeholders understand the roles and responsibilities of different bodies.
On its relationship with Prospectus Ghana Limited, the GES confirmed that it has a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the company to introduce its educational products and services to schools. The Service, however, stressed that the agreement does not make the purchase of the products compulsory. The MoU allows Prospectus Ghana Limited to offer its products and services to schools, but purchasing these items is strictly voluntary.
The GES added that the MoU does not give any external body the authority to make the products compulsory for students. The Service emphasised that the acquisition of Prospectus Ghana products is not compulsory, nor does it empower any external body to impose them as required school items. This clarification aims to reassure parents and students that they are not obligated to purchase these products.
The GES remains committed to protecting parents and learners from unauthorised financial demands in public schools. The Service directed school authorities, parents, and third-party vendors to ensure that all communications and arrangements comply with official GES guidelines. The GES will continue to enforce compliance across public basic and senior high schools and uphold the need for transparency in access to education.
The GES urged all stakeholders to be aware of the authorised guidelines and to report any unauthorised financial demands. The Service will investigate any reports of unauthorised fees, compulsory product purchases, and unapproved financial levies in all public schools. By doing so, the GES aims to ensure that all students have equal access to education without facing financial burdens.
Key points
- The Ghana Education Service has clarified its partnership with Prospectus Ghana Limited, emphasising that the purchase of products is voluntary.
- The GES has also clarified the role of Parent-Teacher Associations, stating that they operate at the individual school level.
- The Service remains committed to protecting parents and learners from unauthorised financial demands in public schools.
