The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a firm directive to all school heads to immediately refund any monies collected from students or parents in connection with the 2025 WASSCE practical examinations. This directive follows the Government of Ghana’s release of full funding to cover all costs associated with the practicals, including necessary materials and resources.
In a circular dated 28th July 2025, signed by Prof. Smile Dzisi, Acting Deputy Director-General (Management Services), the GES expressed concern that despite the government’s full sponsorship, some school heads had continued to request payments from candidates and their guardians. Such actions, the GES noted, go against policy and place unnecessary financial pressure on families.
The directive calls for a full refund of any monies collected, with an emphasis on ensuring that the process is properly documented. Heads of schools are required to issue official receipts for all repayments and report to their Regional Directors once the process has been completed.
GES emphasized that this measure is not merely administrative but seeks to uphold fairness and protect students from financial exclusion. “No learner should be denied access to education or participation in examinations due to lack of money,” the notice stressed.
The statement further warned that any failure to comply with the refund directive would be treated as a serious breach of official instructions and may result in disciplinary actions.
Regional Directors have been asked to share this important information with all Heads of Schools through their respective Municipal, Metro, and District Directors of Education.
The GES concluded by reaffirming its commitment to ensuring equal opportunity for all students and thanked school leaders in advance for their cooperation in fulfilling this responsibility.
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