By: Jeremiah Nutsugah
Former Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES), Charles Aheto Tsegah, has criticized the headmasters currently under investigation for improper charges. He emphasized that certain expenses are the responsibility of the government, not parents, given the context of the free Senior High School (SHS) policy.
On December 8, 2023, the Ghana Education Service issued a statement announcing an investigation into the conduct of eleven Headteachers from 11 Senior High Schools for charging unauthorized fees.
During an interview on the Breakfast show on December 11, 2023, the former Director-General explained that the government should covers all administrative costs under the free SHS program. He noted the importance of timely financial support to maintain a conducive academic environment.
Addressing allegations of headmasters accepting money for beds, Mr. Tsegah expressed disbelief, questioning the source of such costs and deeming them outrageous. He emphasized the need for transparency in financial matters.
Discussing potential consequences for the headmasters, he mentioned the already damaged reputations due to interdictions. If found guilty, they could face charges of Non-Compliance of Administrative Reformation, potential job termination, and, for severe cases, punishment corresponding to related crimes committed.
Mr. Tsegah urged the public to take an interest in the matter, stressing the circumstances surrounding the Headmasters and questioning the Ghana Education Service’s haste in announcing interdictions without completing additional investigations.
The implicated Headteachers include Mrs. Selina Anane Afoakwa, Headmistress of Kumasi Girls SHS; Mr. Nathaniel Asamoah, Headmaster of Asanteman SHS; Mr. Andrews Boateng, Headmaster of Kumasi Senior High Technical School; Mr. Kwadwo Obeng-Appiah, Headmaster of Manso-Edubia SHS; Mr. Daniel Boamah Duku, Headmaster of Agric Nzema Community SHS; Mrs. Gladys Sarfowah, Headmistress of Nkawie Senior High Technical School; and Mr. Ampong Ahmed Omar, Headmaster of Collins SHS.
