GES denies cancelling Free SHS policy, warns against GH¢1,500 'chop box' scams
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has debunked viral reports claiming the Free SHS policy has been cancelled and parents directed to pay GH¢1,500.
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has dismissed claims circulating on social media that the Director-General has revoked the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy. In a press release on August 18, 2026, the GES Management explicitly stated that these reports are false and urged the public to disregard them. The organization emphasized that the Free SHS policy remains in effect and no directive has been issued requiring parents or guardians to pay any money for school provisions such as chop boxes, trunks or any other item.
The statement clarified that the Director-General of GES does not possess the legal authority to unilaterally cancel a government policy. GES urged parents, guardians, and students to remain vigilant and not make payments to anyone demanding money under the pretext of school supplies or policy directives. To combat misinformation, the organization advised the general public to verify information through official communication channels.
Moreover, GES called on media organizations and social media users to exercise caution and refrain from disseminating unverified news that could instill panic among students and parents.
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