The Ministry of Education has directed school authorities across the country to desist from charging unauthorised fees and diverting food intended for students, describing such practices as unacceptable and a breach of public trust.
Deputy Minister for Education, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, issued the warning during the 50th anniversary celebration of Zamse Senior High/Technical School (ZAMSTECH) in Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region.
He stressed that parents should not be burdened with fees that have not been approved by the appropriate authorities and insisted that all food supplied under government programmes must be used solely for the benefit of students.
According to Dr. Apaak, no child should be denied meals or go hungry because food allocated to schools has been diverted for other purposes.
The Deputy Minister clarified that the Ministry’s concerns were directed at schools across the country and were not specific to ZAMSTECH.
He also expressed concern about rising cases of indiscipline in some educational institutions and called for a coordinated response from all stakeholders.
Dr. Apaak urged teachers, parents, traditional authorities, religious leaders and community members to work together to instill discipline and positive values among students.
He noted that creating a conducive learning environment requires the collective effort of all stakeholders and emphasised the importance of ensuring that schools remain safe, supportive and focused on academic excellence.
The Deputy Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving educational standards and student welfare while promoting accountability in the management of schools nationwide.