By: Nana Antwi Boasiako
The National Council of Private School Teachers, Private School Workers Union of Ghana, United Private School Teachers Union and Unemployment University Graduates have warned the government that its members will abstain from participating in the 2024 general elections unless urgent attention is given to the numerous challenges plaguing the private educational sector. Key grievances include crippling taxes on private schools and the exclusion of private institutions in STEM education programs.
In an exclusive interview with Happy Kaseɛbɔ, James Kwame Ackon, Executive Director of the National Council of Private School Teachers cited the government’s inaction on pressing issues affecting private teachers as the primary motivation behind the union’s stance. He expressed concern that the numerous taxes imposed on private schools have become a significant burden, leaving owners struggling to pay their teachers and staff decent wages.
Mr. Ackon expressed disappointment that the government failed to consult with the Private Schools Association during the introduction of Free SHS, effectively excluding private schools from the policy. He pointed out the unfairness of this decision, given that parents of both public and private school students pay taxes. He noted that public schools receive additional benefits, including free BECE registration and feeding, while private schools continue to pay BECE registration fees.
He also criticized the government’s introduction of STEM education, which he believes unfairly favors public schools. He highlighted the government’s neglect of private school workers during the COVID-19 era, when public school teachers received salaries despite schools being closed, leaving private schools without fees to pay their staff.
Mr. Ackon is urging the government to engage with the Private Schools Association in drafting policies that benefit schools in the country. If this does not happen, he warns that private schools will withhold their participation in this year’s election, citing a lack of representation and support from the government.