Concerns over access to basic education have intensified in the Tema West Municipality following allegations that some pupils are being prevented from writing examinations due to unpaid Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) levies.
The issue, raised by assembly members during a general assembly meeting, has triggered calls for urgent investigations into practices within several schools, with local authorities warning that such actions undermine Ghana’s free basic education policy.
Members described the situation as widespread and troubling, arguing that enforcing levy payments as a condition for exams could contribute to rising dropout rates and deny vulnerable children their right to education.
Beyond the levy controversy, the assembly members also flagged alleged administrative irregularities in some schools, including the unauthorised sale of school resources, leasing of school lands for private use, and questionable financial practices involving PTA funds.
Additional concerns were raised about teachers reportedly selling food items to pupils on credit and the use of school canteens for non-educational purposes, including religious activities instead of supporting the School Feeding Programme.
While an official from the Municipal Education Directorate maintained that no formal complaints had been received, the Municipal Chief Executive, Ludwig Teye Totimeh, rejected claims of ignorance, insisting that the concerns were widely known and required immediate attention.
In response, the Presiding Member of the Assembly, Gilbert Kenneth Mag-Mawuli, has directed the Education Directorate to submit a detailed report explaining the situation, particularly the alleged denial of examinations to pupils.
Assembly members have pledged their support for a full investigation, stressing the need to ensure transparency, accountability, and the protection of pupils’ rights across the municipality.
