Senior high school placement is absolutely free — Dr. Clement Apaak

Dr. Clement Apaak, the Deputy Minister of Education, has warned parents, guardians and candidates against paying money to those who claim they can secure or alter Senior High School (SHS) placements. Speaking at a press briefing, Dr. Apaak emphasized that the 2026 SHS placement process is entirely free, urging the public not to fall prey to individuals demanding payment for placement assistance.

He explicitly stated that no parent, guardian, or candidate should pay any individual for help with placement. Dr. Apaak clarified that this warning applies to anyone posing as an official from the Ministry of Education, the Ghana Education Service, a school representative, an intermediary, or any other third party offering to secure or change a candidate's placement for a fee.

He stressed that there is no legitimate protocol requiring any form of payment to secure or modify a placement. Placement is determined by predetermined criteria, candidates' preferences, program necessities, and the availability of spots. To handle potential issues during the placement process, the Ministry of Education has set up placement resolution centers in Accra and at the regional levels, where candidates, parents, and guardians can report placement-related concerns and receive assistance.

Dr. Apaak recommended that the public only seek help through official channels and the designated resolution centers, rather than dealing with intermediaries or people who ask for money. Candidates, parents, and guardians can reach out for assistance via the following numbers: 0550377388, 0599525926, 0598445898, 0597974847, and 0558555431.