Catholic Bishops demand probe into ‘protocol admissions’ amid SHS placement challenges

The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference has called for a thorough investigation into Ghana’s senior high school placement system, raising concerns over alleged "protocol" admissions into popular schools. They are seeking transparency regarding the legal basis for discretionary admissions, the quantity of affected places, the criteria applied, and the individuals responsible for the process.

The Bishops expressed worry that the Computerised School Selection and Placement System may erode public trust in the fairness of admissions. They specifically criticized allegations that parents are coerced into paying money to secure places for their children, stating that no official, agent, or intermediary should seek or accept payment for admissions.

The Bishops urged the government to disclose any such allegations, with those found guilty facing disciplinary action and potential criminal charges. However, they cautioned against tarnishing the reputations of honest public servants with unproven claims. They emphasized that the placement system should not give the impression that money, connections, or influence can secure opportunities for those who are less qualified.

The Conference stressed that 604,567 candidates were eligible for placement this year, but only 527,932 were placed upon the release of results. They acknowledged that factors such as academic performance, program choice, boarding or day preference, and available spaces influence placement decisions. The Bishops also highlighted concerns over students being placed in schools that do not align with their sex, disability, circumstances, or location, and called for prompt correction of any placement errors.

They proposed the involvement of independent technical experts to examine the placement system, with the findings made public. Families should be informed about the key factors determining placement, including exam scores, program choices, cutoffs, and available spaces. The Bishops further advocated for a strengthened appeals process with clear procedures and time limits.

Separately, they reiterated their demand for a formal agreement between the government and Churches on the management of mission schools, reserving 20% of annual admissions to Catholic mission schools for Catholic candidates. The Bishops instructed the National Catholic Secretariat’s education office to develop a clear plan for implementing this decision promptly.

They insisted that any such arrangement must be transparent, subject to annual audits, and strictly prohibit any exchange of money. Their ultimate goal is a placement system where merit, choice, fairness, and the best interests of the child determine admissions.