By Anthony Adongo Apubeo, GNA
Bolgatanga, Oct. 5, GNA – The Ministry of Education has warned school managements against charging students fees that have not been approved, describing the practice as a betrayal of trust that places an undue burden on parents and guardians.
Dr Clement Apaak, Deputy Minister of Education, said the Ministry was concerned about reports of some school authorities charging unauthorised fees and diverting food meant for students.
“The Ministry is worried about reports of school management charging fees that were not approved and more troubling, about food meant for students being diverted elsewhere these are betrayals of trust,” he said.
“No parent should be asked to pay what has never been sanctioned. No child should go hungry because food brought for their plate ended up somewhere else. Where this is happening, it must stop.”
Dr Apaak gave the warning in Bolgatanga during the 50th anniversary celebration of the Zamse Senior High Technical School (ZAMSTECH).
Dr Apaak said the warning was applicable to school managements across the country and urged them to adhere strictly to approved policies and regulations governing the administration of schools.
“And school managements across this country should hear this as a clear warning, not a suggestion. If you are found to be engaged in this sabotaging behaviour, you can be sure that you will be severely sanctioned,” Dr Apaak said.
Dr Apaak said the school’s 50-year journey was a testament to the vision and sacrifices of its founders, past students, teachers and other stakeholders who had contributed to its development.
He called on alumni to support the institution through mentorship and other forms of assistance to enable it to sustain its legacy and improve its facilities.
Mr Akamugri Donatus Atanga, Upper East Regional Minister, said education was a shared responsibility requiring the commitment of government, teachers, parents, traditional authorities, communities, alumni and the private sector.
He said the Regional Coordinating Council was committed to supporting the development of the school, including efforts to improve infrastructure and the learning environment.
He said the government was taking steps to support the school with critical infrastructure, including fencing, classroom blocks, a modern dining hall and properly equipped workshops to strengthen technical and practical training.
The Regional Minister urged alumni, parents, traditional authorities, the private sector and other stakeholders to increase their support for the school, particularly in infrastructure, technology, skills development and mentorship.
He said technical and vocational education was increasingly important in preparing young people for the changing world of work and urged students to develop skills in creativity, critical thinking, entrepreneurship and problem-solving.
The 50th anniversary celebration was held on the theme “Celebrating Academic Excellence: Empowering Minds and Shaping the Future – The Role of Stakeholders”
GNA
Edited by Caesar Abagali/Bertha Badu-Agyei/Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Anthony Adongo Apubeo
Reporter’s email: [email protected]