Private Education Stakeholders Petition CHRAJ Over 30% Priority Placement Policy
Accra, Ghana – November 14, 2024
In a historic and unified move, three major private education organizations in Ghana—the Ghana National Association of Private Schools (GNAPS), the Ghana National Council of Private Schools (GNACOPS), and the Independent Schools and Teachers Council-Ghana (ISTeC-Gh)—petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to abolish the government’s 30% Priority Placement Policy for Senior High School (SHS) admissions.
The coalition contends that the policy, which reserves 30% of admission slots in Category A SHSs for students from public basic schools, is discriminatory and unconstitutional. A joint press conference at the International Press Centre in Accra on November 14, 2024, emphasized the coalition’s demand for an equitable, merit-based placement system.
The coalition argues that the policy, which reserves 30% of admission slots in Category A SHSs for students from public basic schools, is discriminatory and unconstitutional. At a joint press conference held at the International Press Centre in Accra on November 14, 2024, the coalition strongly demanded an equitable, merit-based placement system.
The Petition to CHRAJ
The petition, submitted on November 8, 2024, details how the policy violates several constitutional provisions, including:
- Article 17: Ensuring equality before the law and prohibiting discrimination.
- Article 25(1)(b): Guaranteeing equal access to education for all.
- Article 38(3)(b): Mandating merit-based access to educational institutions.
The petition argues that the 30% reservation unfairly disadvantages private school students, many of whom excel academically but are denied fair access to top-tier SHSs solely based on the type of school they attended.
Key Concerns Raised
During the press conference, GNAPS President, Prof. Damasus Tuurosong, stated that the policy perpetuates educational inequality by penalizing private school students and undermines meritocracy, a cornerstone of Ghana’s educational system.
“Every Ghanaian child, regardless of whether they attended a public or private school, deserves equal access to Category A SHSs based on their academic performance,” Prof. Tuurosong asserted.
GNACOPS Executive Director, Obenfo Nana Kwasi Gyetuah, highlighted the plight of rural private schools, which often serve underprivileged communities with limited resources. “Contrary to the belief that private school students are privileged, many attend these schools out of necessity, not luxury. Penalizing them for this choice is unconstitutional and unjust,” he said.
The Call for Change
The coalition has called on CHRAJ to:
1. Investigate the constitutionality of the 30% Priority Placement Policy.
2. Recommend its immediate abolition.
3. Direct the Ministry of Education to implement a merit-based admission system that ensures fairness for all students, irrespective of their school type.
Prof. Tuurosong also criticized the delay in addressing BECE results withheld by WAEC, citing undue psychological stress on innocent candidates from private schools. He called for quicker investigations and resolutions to prevent further harm to students’ academic progression.
The Path Forward
The joint press conference marks a pivotal moment in Ghana’s education sector, showcasing the unprecedented collaboration between GNAPS, GNACOPS, and ISTeC-Gh. Their united front signals a strong commitment to advocating for fairness, equality, and the constitutional rights of all Ghanaian students.
The coalition’s petition calls for justice and inclusivity in the nation’s education policies. Stakeholders, including parents and development organizations, have been urged to support the push for an equitable system that values merit over arbitrary distinctions.
As the nation awaits CHRAJ’s response, the coalition remains steadfast in its resolve to ensure that every child, regardless of background, has a fair opportunity to access quality education.
