The Ghana Education Service (GES) has cautioned heads of schools and teachers against the collection of unauthorised levies from parents under the guise of Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) dues.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, October 22, and signed by the Head of Public Relations, Daniel Fenyi, the Service said it had received reports that some second-cycle institutions were demanding and collecting various levies without official approval.
GES emphasised that no school has been authorised to collect any PTA or development levy without prior approval from the appropriate educational authorities.
According to the statement, basic schools must seek approval from the District Education Oversight Committee (DEOC) through the District Director of Education, while second-cycle institutions must obtain authorisation from the Regional Director of Education.
The Service further clarified that even when such levies are approved, payments must remain strictly voluntary, and no student should be denied access to school services or privileges due to non-payment.
aditionally, the statement directed that no head, teacher, or GES staff member should take part in the collection of PTA levies. Fundraising activities, it said, are solely the responsibility of duly elected PTA executives.
GES has instructed all Regional and District Directors to monitor compliance with these directives and to take immediate disciplinary action against any officials or schools found violating the guidelines.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
The Service reiterated its commitment to ensuring financial discipline and transparency in all educational institutions across the country.
