By Enock Akonnor (Managing Editor) enockakonnor2013@gmail.com
The Ghana National Council of Private Schools (GNACOPS) has directed its member schools to proceed with the registration of candidates for the 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), despite ongoing concerns over what it describes as “unexplained” registration fees being charged.
In a statement issued on January 22 and signed by its National Executive Director, Obenfo Nana Kwasi Gyetuah, the Council said the decision followed a series of engagements with relevant state agencies and assurances of government support to private schools beginning in February 2026.
According to GNACOPS, the move to temporarily accept the disputed fees is a strategic measure aimed at safeguarding the academic progress of learners and maintaining stability within the education sector.
The Council emphasized that its decision should not be interpreted as an endorsement of the current fee structure.
“This is a good-faith gesture intended to allow ongoing engagements to mature into concrete and sustainable solutions for private schools,” the statement noted.
GNACOPS, however, expressed concern over certain actions and communications from the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), which it said have contributed to unnecessary tension and negatively affected public perception of government’s commitment to private education.
Despite these concerns, the Council reaffirmed its preference for collaboration over confrontation.
The Council reiterated its commitment to advocating for fairness, transparency, and equity in all matters affecting private schools, stressing that the promotion and sustainability of private education in Ghana remain its top priority.
Member schools have been advised to comply with the directive to register BECE candidates while GNACOPS continues its engagements with government and relevant agencies.
The Council assured members that further updates would be communicated as discussions progress.
GNACOPS also expressed appreciation to private school operators nationwide for their patience, resilience, and continued support throughout the period the issue has persisted, describing their commitment as vital to the collective interest of private education in Ghana.
Enock Akonnor is an experienced Ghanaian journalist, based in Kumasi and currently serves as the CEO and Managing Editor of www.leakyghana.com.
With a wealth of expertise built over many years in the media industry, he has earned a solid reputation as one of Ghana’s most sought-after journalists.
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