The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a strong warning to heads of schools and education officials nationwide against collecting unauthorized Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) or development levies.

In a press release dated October 22, 2025, and signed by Daniel Fenyi, Head of Public Relations at GES, the Service said it had received reports that some second-cycle institutions were demanding and collecting unapproved levies under the pretext of PTA dues.

The GES clarified that no school has been granted permission to impose or collect such levies without prior approval from the appropriate authorities.

According to the directive, approval for PTA or development levies in basic schools must be obtained from the District Education Oversight Committee (DEOC) through the District Director of Education, while in second-cycle schools, authorization must come from the Regional Director of Education.

The Service further stressed that even when approved, payment of PTA levies remains voluntary, warning that no student should be denied any right, service, or benefit for failing to pay.

GES also prohibited school heads, teachers, and education staff from participating in the collection of such levies, stating that only duly elected PTA executives are authorized to handle fundraising activities.

Finally, the statement directed all Regional and District Directors of Education to ensure strict enforcement of this directive and to report any breaches for prompt disciplinary action.

Read the GES’ full statement below: