Catholic Bishops' Conference calls for probe into SHS placement for sale allegations

The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference has called for an independent review of the ongoing Senior High School (SHS) placement exercise amid allegations that parents are being asked to pay money to secure places for their children.

The Conference said the allegations, alongside concerns over students being placed in unsuitable schools, require urgent attention to restore confidence in the computerised placement system.

In a statement issued on Monday, September 14, the Conference said the system must be transparent, accountable and free from bribery, discrimination and undue influence.

The Bishops said they are particularly concerned about claims that parents were being asked to pay money to secure placements, stressing that the placement process was intended to be free.

“If placement is meant to be free, no official, agent, or intermediary should request or accept payment for it,” the Conference said.

It called for the allegations to be investigated and urged authorities to take disciplinary action against officials found culpable, including criminal charges where necessary.

The Conference, however, cautioned that unproven accusations should not be used to damage the reputations of public servants who have acted honestly.

It also raised concerns about the practice of so-called “protocol” admissions, calling for clarity on the legal basis, number of places involved, criteria used and officials responsible for such arrangements.

“No placement system can inspire confidence if parents believe that money, connections, or influence can secure places unavailable to more deserving but less privileged children,” it said.

The conference acknowledged that placement outcomes would depend on factors including academic performance, programme choices, boarding or day preferences and available spaces.

However, it said complaints of students being placed in schools unsuitable for their sex, disability, circumstances or location must be addressed.

The Conference said students with disabilities should be placed in schools equipped to meet their needs, while genuine placement errors should be corrected quickly through accessible channels.