The directive follows reports that some schools were demanding admission fees, Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) dues and other charges despite the government’s Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy.

In a statement dated September 23, 2026, the GES instructed all heads of SHS/SHTS to immediately stop collecting unauthorised fees and levies.

The Service stressed that no student or parent should be compelled, directly or indirectly, to pay admission fees, PTA dues or other unauthorised charges as a condition for admission, enrolment, participation in school activities or access to school services.

School heads who have already collected such monies have been directed to refund the payments and submit evidence of the refunds to GES management.

The GES has also warned that heads who flout the directive will face administrative sanctions, including possible removal from office.

On September 29, GES Director-General Professor Ernest Kofi Davis reinforced the directive at a press conference in Accra, saying the collection of unauthorised charges was inconsistent with the principles underpinning the Free SHS policy.

He said the policy was introduced to remove financial barriers to secondary education and ensure that children are not denied access because their parents or guardians cannot afford certain fees.

Prof. Davis further warned that school heads could face disciplinary action if they allow third parties to collect unauthorised payments within school premises. He urged parents and guardians who encounter such demands to report them to GES offices at the district, municipal, regional or national level.

The Service has also clarified that the collection of PTA dues remains on hold because the matter is currently before the courts. Until the case is determined, discussions and collection of PTA dues and levies are not permitted.

The GES says the directive is intended to protect parents from unauthorised financial demands and preserve the objectives of the Free SHS policy, while ensuring that school authorities comply with approved regulations governing admissions and enrolment.