The Ministry of Education has formally referred the Member of Parliament for Akrofuom, Hon. Joseph Azumah, and Mr. Richard Asamoah Mensah, Secretary of the Construction and Building Workers’ Union under the Ghana Trade Union Congress (TUC), to National Security.
This referral is to ensure they provide credible information or evidence to assist in the ongoing investigations into allegations of bribery linked to the school placement process.
In a statement released and signed by Deputy Education Minister Dr. Clement Apaak, the Ministry expressed deep concern over recent media reports quoting Hon. Azumah’s claims regarding corrupt practices in the Computerized School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS).
The MP alleged that an individual, aware of his parliamentary status, approached him at Community 16 seeking assistance for their child’s admission.
According to Azumah, the same person later returned with proof of having paid GH¢30,000 to secure a school placement.
The Ministry stressed the seriousness with which it is treating not only the MP’s allegations but also related claims raised by Mr. Asamoah Mensah.
In light of these revelations, the Education Minister convened a high-level meeting with National Security officials and officially referred the matter for immediate and thorough investigation.
Assuring the public of its unwavering commitment to integrity, transparency, and fairness, the Ministry warned that any individual found to have engaged in bribery, extortion, or manipulation of the school placement system would face strict legal consequences.
“Any individual found to have
engaged in acts of bribery, extortion, or manipulation of the Computerized School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) will face the full rigours of the law,” the statement noted.
The Ministry strongly urged Hon. Azumah, Mr. Asamoah Mensah, and other persons with relevant information to fully cooperate with National Security to ensure a thorough probe.
“The Ministry further urges Hon. Joseph Azumah, Mr. Richard Asamoah Mensah, and any other persons with credible information or evidence to fully cooperate with National Security to aid ongoing investigations. This collaborative effort is crucial to uncovering the truth and ensuring accountability,” the statement emphasized.
Concluding, the Ministry reaffirmed its resolve to protect the credibility of the school placement process and to guarantee that access to secondary education remains free, fair, and merit-based for all Ghanaian children.
Source: www.Kumasimail/Kwadwo Owusu
