Accra: The Ghana Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Service has suspended three principals of technical institutes for allegedly collecting unauthorised fees, which is in violation of the government’s Free TVET Policy.
According to Ghana News Agency, the principals of Agona Swedru Technical Institute in the Central Region, Sunyani Technical Institute in the Bono Region, and Madina Technical Institute in the Greater Accra Region have been placed on a 30-day administrative leave. This decision was made after credible reports of extortion and the imposition of unapproved fees surfaced.
The alleged infractions include the collection of admission charges, boarding protocol fees, payments for changing residential status from day to boarding, fashion practical item fees, bedsheet payments, and PTA-related charges, none of which are sanctioned by the Service. These actions were said to contravene the Service’s directive on maintaining transparency and fairness in the admission process, while undermining the government’s commitment to providing free and equitable access to technical and vocational education across the country.
Management has constituted investigative committees to probe the matter thoroughly and impartially. The composition of these committees will be announced soon, and their findings will inform any further disciplinary measures deemed necessary. During the period of investigation, all official duties and assets of the affected principals have been handed over to the respective Regional Directors. They will supervise the day-to-day administration of the institutions alongside their existing responsibilities.
The Ghana TVET Service reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on corruption, extortion, and any acts that compromise the integrity of the TVET system, pledging to uphold accountability and transparency in its operations. ‘Management assures parents, students, and the public of its unwavering commitment to protecting the integrity of the admission process and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism in the administration of TVET institutions,’ the statement emphasised.