GES warns senior high schools against collecting unauthorised PTA dues

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a firm warning to senior high schools and other second-cycle institutions across the country against the collection of unauthorised Parent Teacher Association (PTA) levies.

The directive follows reports that some schools have been demanding and collecting levies under the guise of PTA or development fees, with some reportedly charging as much as GHC 600.

In a statement dated Wednesday, 22 October, and signed by the Head of Public Relations, Daniel Fenyi, GES acknowledged receiving multiple complaints about the unauthorised collections.

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The statement emphasised that no school has been permitted to collect PTA or development levies without prior approval from the appropriate authorities. It stated:

The GES further noted that even when approval is granted, such payments remain voluntary, and no student should be denied access to any school service or benefit due to non-payment.

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Additionally, the Service cautioned that no headteacher, teacher, or GES staff member should be directly involved in the collection of PTA dues. Fundraising activities, it said, are the sole responsibility of duly elected PTA executives.

GES concluded by directing Regional and District Directors to monitor compliance and report any breach for immediate disciplinary action.