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By: Franklin ASARE-DONKOH The Ghana Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Service has interdicted the Heads 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 over allegations of unauthorized fee collection and extortion at their respective schools. According to a statement issued by the Ghana TVET Service, investigations were triggered after credible reports revealed that some of the institutions were charging unapproved fees, including admission fees, boarding protocol payments, charges for changing residential status from day to boarding, fashion practical item fees, bed-sheet payments, and PTA-related levies. The Service described these practices as violations of the government’s Free TVET Policy, which guarantees free access to technical and vocational education. It stressed that such acts contradict its commitment to transparency and equity in the admission process. In response, management has established investigative committees to conduct a comprehensive and impartial probe into the allegations. The composition of the committees will be made public in due course, and their recommendations will inform the final disciplinary actions to be taken. Meanwhile, the Heads of the affected institutions have been directed to proceed on 30 days of administrative leave with immediate effect. Their responsibilities have been handed over to the respective Regional Directors to ensure continuity in school administration. The Regional Directors who have been handed additional responsibilities include: Madam Hannah Asamoah, Central Regional Director – Agona Swedru Technical Institute; Mr. Gabriel Gyamfi, Bono Regional Director – Sunyani Technical Institute; and Engr. Juliana Nkrumah, Greater Accra Regional Director – Madina Technical Institute. The Ghana TVET Service reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on corruption and misconduct, stating that it remains steadfast in safeguarding accountability, fairness, and professionalism across all Technical and Vocational Education and Training institutions. “Management remains resolute in upholding accountability, transparency, and fairness in the management of Technical and Vocational Education and Training institutions across Ghana. We further assure parents, students, and the general public of its unwavering commitment to maintaining the integrity of the admission process and protecting the interests of learners nationwide,” portions of the statement read.
