The Ghana Education Service (GES) has directed Heads of Senior High Schools (SHS) and Senior High Technical Schools (SHTS) to stop forcing students or their parents to purchase particular brands or types of trunks, chop boxes and other personal storage containers.

In a directive dated 18 September 2026, GES said duly admitted boarding students should not be turned away, refused admission or denied accommodation solely because of the type of trunk, chop box or storage container they bring, provided the item is reasonably sized, safe and does not pose a risk to other students.

Accommodation of students and use of metal trunks and wooden chop boxes.

A second GES directive issued on the same date also addresses unauthorised charges by some Heads of SHS, including compelling parents and guardians to purchase items such as trunks, chop boxes, uniforms and cutlasses directly from schools. Heads have been directed to desist from such practices.

Unauthorised charges by some Heads of Senior High Schools.

GES says Heads who flout the directives may face administrative action in accordance with the applicable regulations.