The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a directive to heads of senior high schools and senior high technical schools, instructing them to immediately stop collecting unauthorised fees and levies from students and their parents or guardians. This move follows reports that some school heads were collecting admission fees, Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) dues, and other unauthorised charges. The directive, dated September 23, 2026, was signed by Daniel Fenyi, Head of Public Relations at the GES.
According to the GES, the charging and collection of unauthorised fees and levies contravene the government's policy on free education at the senior high school level. The Service emphasised that no student or parent should be compelled to pay admission fees, PTA dues, or any other unauthorised charges as a condition for admission, enrolment, or participation in school activities. This directive also covers access to school services, ensuring that such payments are not made a condition for students to access them.
The GES has taken a specific stance on PTA dues, stating that discussions and collection of these dues and levies remain on hold until a pending court case is determined. The Service has directed school heads to refund any unauthorised fees or levies already collected and to submit evidence of the refunds to Management. This measure aims to ensure compliance with the directive and prevent further unauthorised fee collection.
The GES has warned that any person found flouting the directive will face appropriate administrative sanctions, including removal from office. The Service encourages members of the public to report instances of unauthorised fee or levy collection to Management for investigation and necessary action. This move demonstrates the GES's commitment to enforcing its directives and protecting students and parents from unfair practices.
The directive is part of the GES's efforts to ensure that all students have equal access to education without financial burdens. By stopping the collection of unauthorised fees and levies, the Service aims to promote fairness and transparency in the education sector. School heads are expected to adhere to this directive and work towards creating an environment where students can focus on their studies without financial distractions.
The GES has expressed appreciation for the cooperation of stakeholders, particularly school heads, directors, and parents, in ensuring compliance with the directive. The Service is confident that with the support of all stakeholders, it can successfully implement this policy and improve the overall educational experience for students in Ghana. The GES will continue to monitor the situation and take necessary actions to address any challenges that may arise.
Ultimately, the GES's directive aims to uphold the principles of free education and ensure that all students in Ghana have access to quality education without facing financial hardships. By taking a firm stance against unauthorised fee collection, the Service is working towards creating a more equitable and inclusive education system.
Key points
- The GES has directed school heads to refund any unauthorised fees or levies already collected.
- The Service has warned that any person found flouting the directive will face administrative sanctions.
- The directive aims to promote fairness and transparency in the education sector.
