Ghana’s education regulator has issued a stern directive to public school administrators, warning them to cease the collection of unapproved levies under the banner of Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) dues.
In a statement dated October 22, 2025, and signed by Head of Public Relations Daniel Fenyí, the Ghana Education Service (GES) said it had received multiple reports indicating that some second-cycle schools were imposing levies on students and parents without obtaining the necessary authorization.
“No school has been authorised to collect any PTA or development levy without prior approval,” the statement read.
According to the directive, basic schools must secure clearance from the District Education Oversight Committee (DEOC) via the District Director of Education, while second-cycle institutions must receive approval from their respective Regional Directors.
Even when approved, the GES stressed, such levies are strictly voluntary. Students cannot be denied access to school services, activities, or entitlements based on their ability—or willingness—to pay.
The GES also clarified that the responsibility for collecting PTA dues lies solely with elected PTA executives. Teachers, school heads, and other GES staff are prohibited from directly handling such funds.
Regional and District Directors have been instructed to enforce compliance and report any violations for immediate disciplinary action.
