The Ghana Education Service (GES) has dismissed reports circulating on social media claiming that the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy has been cancelled.
The Service has also cautioned parents and guardians against a separate scam allegedly asking them to pay GH¢1,500 for a so-called “chop box” as part of preparations for their children’s admission to senior high school.
The clarification comes amid growing concerns among parents and prospective students over messages circulating online about changes to the Free SHS programme.
According to a report by 3News, GES has confirmed that the Free SHS policy remains in place and that the claims suggesting its cancellation are false.
GES warns against fake payment demands
The Service has urged parents and guardians to be particularly careful about individuals or messages requesting money in connection with Free SHS admissions.
The reported GH¢1,500 “chop box” demand has been identified as part of the fraudulent information circulating among the public.
Parents are therefore encouraged not to make payments based on unverified messages or instructions shared through social media and unofficial channels.
The warning is especially important as parents prepare for the admission of students into senior high schools, a period during which scammers may attempt to take advantage of families seeking information about placement, admission and school requirements.
Free SHS policy remains in place
The GES clarification means parents should not panic over claims that government has cancelled the Free SHS programme.
The policy continues to provide free secondary education to eligible students in public senior high schools and technical and vocational education and training institutions.
The government’s 2026 Budget also provided GH¢4.2 billion for the implementation of Free Secondary Education, further indicating that the programme remains part of the government’s education spending framework.
Parents urged to verify information
GES has urged the public to rely on official communication from the Ghana Education Service and other authorised government channels when seeking information about school admissions, fees, requirements and the Free SHS programme.
Parents should also be cautious about sending money to individuals based solely on WhatsApp messages, Facebook posts, flyers or other online publications that cannot be verified.
As the new academic year approaches, families are being encouraged to verify any payment request or admission-related instruction before taking action.
The latest warning serves as a reminder that misinformation can create unnecessary anxiety for parents while also providing an opportunity for fraudsters to exploit families.
HeraldGH encourages parents and guardians to verify suspicious claims directly with GES or their children’s schools before making any payment.
Source: 3News
