Parliament has enacted the Education Regulatory Bodies Amendment Bill, 2026 (Act 1023), a move set to transform Ghana’s tertiary education sector by shortening the pathway to full institutional autonomy.
Under the new law, all private tertiary institutions affiliated with mentoring universities are now required to secure a Charter within six years, reducing the previous ten-year mentorship period. The reform aims to fast-track institutional independence while maintaining standards in governance, infrastructure, and academic quality.
The Bill was introduced on February 4, 2026, by Deputy Minister of Education Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, on behalf of Minister of Education Haruna Iddrisu, in line with Article 106 (4) and (5) of the 1992 Constitution. Following parliamentary procedures, it was reviewed by the Committee on Education, which drew on key documents, including the 1992 Constitution, Education Act, 2008 (Act 778), and the Education Regulatory Bodies Act, 2020 (Act 1022), before recommending approval.
Mr. Peter Kwasi Nortsu-Kotoe, Chairman of the Education Committee, acknowledged contributions from the Ministry, the Office of the Attorney-General, the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), and the Private Universities Founders Association (PUFA) in shaping the legislation.
The reform comes amid rapid expansion of Ghana’s private tertiary sector over the last three decades, which has increased access to higher education, fostered human capital development, and introduced innovative academic programmes. The accelerated Charter process is expected to further empower institutions to manage their academic affairs and strategic direction.
However, concerns remain among some private universities over the feasibility of meeting the six-year deadline. Institutions must demonstrate adequate financial reserves, physical infrastructure, and governance structures before being granted a Charter. Smaller, mission-driven institutions warn that the shortened timeline and financial obligations—including fees paid to mentoring universities—may pose significant challenges.
Stakeholders are calling for support mechanisms and dialogue to help private institutions comply with the new requirements while safeguarding quality standards.
The passage of Act 1023 signals a new era for Ghana’s tertiary education landscape, encouraging institutional autonomy, promoting innovation, and creating opportunities for private universities to accelerate their contributions to national development.
