Ghana's Parliamentary Select Committee on Education has commenced a comprehensive review of financial and procurement practices within several Colleges of Education. This action directly follows adverse findings detailed in the Auditor General’s reports for the 2024 and 2025 financial years. The Committee's probe focuses on ensuring accountability and proper use of public funds in these vital educational institutions.
The review highlights significant concerns regarding procurement lapses and weak internal controls identified across various colleges. Management representatives from affected institutions have appeared before lawmakers to address these issues. They are also outlining steps to rectify the identified deficiencies and improve their operational standards. This scrutiny is crucial for maintaining public trust in the management of educational resources.
This parliamentary oversight fits into Ghana's broader efforts to combat corruption and enhance public sector accountability. The Auditor General's reports frequently highlight financial irregularities across government agencies. Such probes underscore the legislative branch's role in ensuring fiscal discipline. Strengthening financial management in Colleges of Education directly impacts the quality of teacher training and, consequently, the national education system.
Peter Nortsu Kotoe, Chairman of the Committee, expressed deep concern over the procurement lapses. He urged college authorities to strictly adhere to relevant procurement laws and procedures. Mr. Kotoe emphasized the critical need for management to strengthen internal controls. This ensures public funds are properly accounted for and used solely for their intended purposes.
The Committee also raised concerns about the institutions' ability to anticipate and manage operational risks. Fred Kyei, a Committee member, called for comprehensive risk management frameworks. These frameworks would enable colleges to identify potential threats early and implement measures to minimize their impact. Lawmakers further encouraged regular in-service training for staff. This professional development aims to improve administrative practices and enhance service quality.
The implications of this probe are far-reaching for Ghana's education sector. Enhanced financial oversight could lead to more efficient use of resources. This might free up funds for critical infrastructure or academic programs. Colleges must now prioritize compliance and transparency to avoid future sanctions. Decision-makers will closely watch the implementation of recommended reforms. This will ensure that public funds allocated to teacher training are managed with utmost integrity and effectiveness. The outcome will shape future funding and governance models for these institutions.
Among the institutions engaged by the Committee were St John Bosco’s College of Education, Gambaga College of Education, and Dambai College of Education. Others included Al Faruq College of Education, OLA College of Education, and Peki College of Education. St Francis College of Education and E.P. College of Education, Amedzofe, also participated. Akrokeri College of Education, Wiawso College of Education, and Nusrat Jahan Ahmadiyya College of Education were also part of the review. Sunyani Technical University and Dr Hilla Limann Technical University were also engaged. The Committee stated these engagements aim to strengthen accountability and ensure compliance with prescribed financial, procurement, and management standards across all public educational institutions.