The Ghana National Association of Private Schools (GNAPS) has appealed to the government to lower the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) registration fees charged to students in private schools.
GNAPS President Professor Damasus Tuurusong made the appeal during the launch of the 2026 GNAPS Week Celebration in Ejisu in the Ashanti Region. The event brought together education stakeholders under the theme “Resetting Ghana’s 21st Century Education: Embracing the Creative Role of Private Schools.”
Professor Tuurusong described the recent 24.24 percent increase in BECE fees as “unconscionable” and said the higher charges are placing a heavy financial burden on private schools and families. He pointed out that the fee hike came at a time when key economic indicators, such as inflation and petroleum prices, were showing signs of improvement.
Despite efforts by GNAPS and its members to oppose the increase, the association was unable to secure a reversal of this year’s fee adjustment. However, the leadership says the setback will not deter them, noting their commitment to continue advocating for fairer and more affordable fees in the future.
“We did not get the reduction we anticipated,” Professor Tuurusong said, “but we have not surrendered the fight. Getting the support of parents, staff, students, alumni, and partners will be crucial for future success.”
He also urged other regulatory bodies such as the Environmental Protection Agency, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives, and the Ghana Revenue Authority to use more balanced approaches in engaging with schools, particularly in enforcement actions.
