Why private schools prefer selling textbooks directly to parents – GNACOPS

Obenfo Nana Kwasi Gyetuah, Executive Director of the Ghana National Council of Private Schools (GNACOPS), addressed claims that private schools force parents to buy textbooks directly from the schools. In a recent interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem morning show, he clarified that there are no policies or arrangements within private schools that would prevent parents from purchasing textbooks from other sources.

Gyetuah emphasized that there is no compulsion for parents to buy books from the school, stating, “There is nothing like forcing parents to buy books from the school.”

According to the GNACOPS leader, selling textbooks directly to parents is meant to ensure that pupils have all necessary materials before lessons commence. He explained that if parents were to purchase books independently, some children might only acquire partial materials or books of different editions, which could hinder their learning.

By selling the books in the school, private schools simplify the process for parents, reducing the risk of incomplete or incompatible materials. Gyetuah noted that variations in publishers could also create discrepancies, as different publishers may use varying writing styles, which could cause confusion if parents purchased books not prescribed by the school.

The GNACOPS executive also discussed practical financial considerations. Some parents might find it challenging to pay for all required textbooks at once. Recognizing this, GNACOPS often collaborates with publishers to facilitate payment plans, allowing parents to buy the full set of books and pay in installments upon the school’s reopening.

This arrangement gives parents the time to organize their finances, making the purchase more manageable. Gyetuah highlighted that this arrangement benefits both schools and parents by ensuring that all necessary books are available when lessons begin, thus facilitating a smoother educational experience.

Gyetuah pointed out that effective communication is crucial to dispelling misconceptions about the practice. He acknowledged that poor communication between some schools and parents can lead to misunderstandings, with parents perceiving the textbook sales as an attempt to extort families. To mitigate these issues, Gyetuah stressed the importance of schools clearly explaining the rationale behind selling textbooks directly to parents.

Enhanced communication, he argued, would help clear up any confusion and reduce the perception of undue pressure on families, especially during the busy period leading up to school reopenings.