The Ministry of Education has launched an urgent investigation into alleged bribery within Ghana’s school placement system.
This follows claims by Joseph Azumah, Member of Parliament for Akrofuom, who said a constituent paid GH¢30,000 to secure placement for a child. According to Azumah, the individual first approached him for assistance at Community 16, and later returned with evidence of the payment.
Similar concerns were raised by Richard Asamoah Mensah, Secretary of the Construction and Building Workers’ Union of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), adding weight to the allegations.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, October 22, the Ministry described the claims as “grave” and confirmed that the Education Minister has convened a meeting with National Security to ensure a thorough probe.
“The Ministry wishes to assure the public that it is committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and fairness in the school placement process,” the statement read.
It warned that any individual found guilty of bribery, extortion, or manipulation of the Computerized School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) will face the full rigours of the law.
The Ministry urged Mr. Azumah, Mr. Mensah, and anyone with credible information to cooperate fully with National Security to help uncover the truth.
Reaffirming its commitment, the Ministry emphasized its dedication to safeguarding the integrity of the placement process and ensuring that access to secondary education remains “free, fair, and merit-based for every Ghanaian child.”
