Ghana's Ministry of Education will amend the Pre-Tertiary Education Act, 2020 (Act 1049), to expand the representation of recognised faith-based organisations on the Ghana Education Service (GES) Council. This action directly addresses concerns about reduced involvement from these key educational stakeholders.
The decision follows strong objections from groups like the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference, which highlighted the absence of its representative on the Council. The Ministry acknowledges the substantial contributions faith-based organisations make to education across Ghana. It aims to correct an anomaly where their representation was significantly cut under the current law.
This amendment fits into a broader national conversation about stakeholder engagement in public institutions and decentralisation. Faith-based organisations have historically played a crucial role in Ghana's education sector, establishing many schools and contributing to moral formation. Their reduced presence on the GES Council, from three seats under the 1995 Act to one under the 2020 Act, sparked widespread debate. This move signals a return to a more inclusive governance model, recognising their long-standing impact on educational policy and implementation. The Ministry's commitment to inclusive governance aligns with calls for broader participation in national development.
Deputy Education Minister Dr Clement Apaak confirmed the Ministry's intention in a statement issued on August 27. He explained that the Ministry identified the issue of inadequate representation while constituting the GES Council in 2025. Dr Apaak stated that the process was put on hold specifically to allow for the necessary legislative amendment. This pause underscores the Ministry's recognition of the importance of these organisations.
The proposed amendment will ensure appropriate representation for all recognised faith-based organisations. This legislative review is expected to foster greater collaboration between the government and these groups. It also supports the government’s broader decentralisation agenda within the education sector. Decision-makers and educational bodies will closely watch the amendment process and its impact on school governance. The Ministry has urged faith-based organisations to support efforts to address growing indiscipline in schools as the legislative review progresses. This collaborative approach is vital for maintaining standards and discipline in Ghana's educational institutions. The amendment is expected to strengthen the partnership between the state and religious bodies in shaping the future of education. This development will likely influence how educational policies are formulated and implemented across the country, ensuring a wider range of perspectives are considered. The long-term implications include potentially improved school management and enhanced moral education, reflecting the values of these influential organisations. The Ministry's proactive stance aims to restore trust and ensure all voices are heard in shaping Ghana's educational landscape.