The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a strong warning to all second-cycle schools in Ghana: stop collecting unauthorised Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) or development levies. This directive comes amidst reports that some schools are demanding these levies as part of the registration process for fresh Senior High School (SHS) students beginning the 2025-2026 academic year.
According to the GES, no school has been given the green light to collect any PTA or development levy without prior approval. For basic schools, the District Education Oversight Committee (DEOC), through the District Director of Education, must grant such approval. Second-cycle schools need approval from the Regional Director of Education.
Voluntary Payments Only
Even with approval, the GES emphasizes that payments are strictly voluntary. No student should be denied any school service, right, or benefit for non-payment. The GES statement, signed by Head of Public Relations Daniel Fenyi, further directs regional and district directors of education to monitor compliance and report any breaches for immediate disciplinary action.
Africa Education Watch Concerns
Kofi Asare, Executive Director of Africa Education Watch, has expressed concern that many schools are not respecting the PTA guidelines. He noted that the guidelines require schools to submit a work plan and request for approval of PTA dues to the Regional Director of Education for approval.
- Schools are reminded to adhere strictly to GES guidelines.
- Parents should not be coerced into paying unauthorised levies.
- Report any instances of non-compliance to the GES.
The GES urges all stakeholders to cooperate in ensuring a smooth and transparent registration process for all students.