Catholic Bishops pressure gov’t to sign long-delayed mission schools agreement

The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference is urging the government to finalize and sign the long-awaited agreement on the management of mission schools. The Bishops argue that this pact is essential to establish clear guidelines for admissions, governance, and various aspects of school operations. They also aim to safeguard the unique character of these institutions.

Recent concerns have arisen regarding the Computerised School Selection and Placement System, which has caused confusion and hardship for parents and students. The Bishops emphasize that Catholic and other Christian schools were founded well before the state took over responsibility for universal education. They argue that while the government has a duty to ensure fair access to education, the founding Churches also have a legitimate interest in preserving the religious nature and values of their schools.

The Conference has previously decided that 20% of admissions to Catholic mission schools should be reserved annually for Catholic candidates—a decision that the Bishops claim is already implemented. They stress that this arrangement should be transparent, free of corruption, and conducted by proper Boards of Governors and diocesan education offices, subject to regular audits.

The Bishops are particularly troubled by the recent placement process, where 527,932 out of 604,567 qualified candidates were placed. They have received complaints about students being placed in unsuitable schools based on factors like sex, disability, circumstances, or location. Additionally, there are allegations that parents are being asked to pay for placement.

The Bishops call for an independent review of these issues and for greater transparency in the placement system. They also seek clarity on "protocol" admissions, wanting to know their legal basis, the number of places, the selection criteria, and who is responsible. The Conference urges the government to expedite the signing of the long-awaited Missions-State agreement and to ensure openness in admissions, end improper protocol arrangements, and strengthen the appeals process.