CHASS Advises Against School Reopening Amid Unpaid Arrears

Jan 1, 2025 - 03:37

Dr. Yaw Osei Adu Twum is Ghana's Minister of Education

Accra, Ghana - January 01, 2025 - A major setback threatens Ghana's education sector as the Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) advises against reopening schools on January 3, 2025, due to unresolved financial issues. Despite multiple requests, the government has failed to address unpaid arrears related to perishables, recurrent fees, and transportation costs.

The situation has left schools in a difficult financial position, prompting CHASS to inform its members that reopening on the scheduled date is not advisable. Parents and guardians will be notified through regional branches of CHASS and school Parents Associations.

CHASS has repeatedly urged the government to address these financial constraints, sending letters to the Minister of Education and the Director General of the Ghana Education Service (GES) on August 12, 2024, November 13, 2024, and December 20, 2024.

However, the government's lack of response has forced CHASS to take a stance.

The Ghana Education Service had previously announced the academic calendar for the 2024-2025 year, with the second term set to begin on January 8, 2025. However, CHASS's decision may disrupt these plans, leaving students, parents, and teachers uncertain about the upcoming term.

As the situation unfolds, CHASS leadership has reassured members that further updates will be provided once the financial issues are addressed, expressing hope for a timely resolution and reopening of schools.

Find the statement from CHASS below.