Copyright ghanabusinessnews
The Ghana Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Service has suspended three principals of technical institutes for allegedly collecting unauthorised fees in violation of the government’s Free TVET Policy. They include 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. In a statement issued and copied to the Ghana News Agency, the management of the Ghana TVET Service said the three have been placed on a 30-day administrative leave with immediate effect following credible reports of extortion and the imposition of unapproved fees. 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 — all of which are not sanctioned by the Service. According to the statement, these actions contravened the Service’s directive on maintaining transparency and fairness in the admission process, while also undermining the government’s commitment to providing free and equitable access to technical and vocational education across the country. Management has since 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, who 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. Source: GNA
