GES Probes Terchire SHS Extortion Allegations: Ghana Education Service Investigates Illegal Fees
Ahafo, Ghana – June 4, 2026
The Ghana Education Service, GES, has opened an investigation into alleged extortion at Terchire Senior High School in the Ahafo Region. The probe follows complaints from parents and students that some school officials are collecting unauthorized fees outside government policy.
According to reports, the allegations center on “illegal charges” for admissions, accommodation, and other school services. Parents say they were pressured to pay amounts not approved by GES or the Ministry of Education, creating financial strain for many households. The complaints prompted GES to step in and launch a formal investigation to verify the claims.
GES response and investigation process
The Ghana Education Service has confirmed that a team has been dispatched to Terchire SHS to gather facts. GES officials will review school records, interview parents, students, and staff, and audit any monies collected. The Service has repeatedly warned that only fees approved under the government’s free SHS policy are permitted in public senior high schools.
In a statement, GES said any staff found culpable will face disciplinary action in line with public service regulations. The Service also urged parents to report any illegal charges directly to district or regional directors instead of paying under duress.
Impact on parents and students
Free SHS was introduced to reduce the financial burden on parents. Allegations of extortion undermine that policy and can force some students to drop out. At Terchire SHS, parents say extra charges for items like “protocol admission”, bedding, and development levies have become common, despite government directives.
Education watchers note that extortion cases often arise from gaps in monitoring and weak accountability at school level. They are calling on GES to strengthen supervision, publish approved fee structures, and sanction heads who violate the rules.
The outcome of the GES probe will determine the next steps. If evidence of illegal fees is confirmed, affected parents may be refunded and sanctions applied. GES has also hinted at retraining school administrators on compliance with fee policies to prevent future incidents.
For now, Terchire SHS remains under scrutiny as GES works to restore confidence in the free SHS program and protect students’ right to education without illegal payments.
About The Author
