Mahama Orders GES to Reinstate PTAs in Senior Secondary Schools

Accra, Ghana – President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Ghana Education Service (GES) to reintroduce Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) within senior secondary schools, reinforcing his February 27, 2025 State of the Nation speech directive aimed at bolstering community involvement in education.

???? Why PTAs Matter Again

GES had suspended PTA activities in 2019 to align with Free SHS policy, aiming to eliminate financial burdens on parents. However, the absence of this crucial structure left a growing void in school oversight, infrastructure support, and community-teacher collaboration. 

???? Government’s Assurance

Mahama reaffirmed that while PTAs would return, they will not impose undue financial pressure on parents or students. The Ministry of Education and GES are working to structure PTAs to serve as supportive and inclusive entities, not financial burdens. 

???? Stakeholder Endorsement

Backing the move, PTA Ghana expressed optimism about the renewed collaboration:

“As an organization… the ability to fully resume our operations will enhance our collective effort to support the Free SHS Policy and improve the general quality of 

Similarly, the African Foundation for Educational Development (AFFED) applauded the reinstatement but cautioned that PTAs must operate within a harmonised framework to ensure transparency and 

????Mahama’s Vision

During a forum in Ho, Volta Region, Mahama lauded Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu for his leadership, stating:

“I’m happy… that PTAs can engage schools to ensure that the children… are properly managed.” 

He highlighted the pivotal role PTAs can play in deepening school governance and fostering stronger partnerships with traditional authorities and local communities. 

????Impact and Next Steps

The government anticipates the PTA revival will yield several benefits:

• Strengthened school governance through active parental involvement.

• Improved infrastructure and learning environments, with community support.

• Elevated accountability and resource mobilisation at the school level.

Moving forward, GES is expected to:

• Issue a standardised operating framework for PTAs.

• Roll out training for PTA volunteers and school leaders.

• Ensure smooth and transparent integration across all senior high schools.

????Bottom Line

President Mahama’s directive to bring PTAs back to senior secondary schools marks a decisive step toward more collaborative school governance. With careful implementation, this policy promises to deepen community engagement, bolster educational quality, and uphold parental empowerment—without reversing gains made by Free SHS.