GES warns school heads against unauthorised PTA levy collection

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a stern warning to heads of schools to refrain from demanding or collecting unauthorised levies under the guise of Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) fees.

In a statement released on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, and signed by Daniel Fenyí, the GES Head of Public Relations, the Service confirmed receiving reports that some second-cycle institutions were collecting unapproved levies.

The GES clarified that no school is permitted to collect any PTA or development levy without prior approval. For basic schools, such approval must be obtained from the District Education Oversight Committee (DEOC) through the District Director of Education, while second-cycle institutions must seek authorisation from the Regional Director of Education.

The statement further stressed that even when levies are approved, payment remains completely voluntary, and no student should be denied any school services, rights, or benefits due to non-payment.

GES also reminded school heads, teachers, and GES staff members that they are prohibited from collecting PTA fees.

Fundraising for such purposes is solely the responsibility of elected PTA executives. The Service has instructed Regional and District Directors to ensure full adherence to this directive and to report any violations for immediate disciplinary action.