Minister for Education Haruna Iddrisu has revealed that more than three individuals have been arrested for allegedly circulating false claims of bribery and manipulation in the ongoing Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS).
Speaking at a press briefing in Accra, Mr. Iddrisu said the suspects were picked up by national security operatives after making unsubstantiated allegations that education officials were collecting bribes to influence school placements.
According to the Minister, preliminary investigations showed that the suspects had no involvement in the placement process and could not provide any proof to back their claims.
“You know I’m not the police, so they will provide the details. But what I can tell you is that they are more than three. We have a robust cybersecurity system that helps us monitor and detect fraudulent activities related to school placement,” he stated.
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Mr. Iddrisu recalled that national security had earlier arrested three people over similar offences, which led to a broader probe into alleged irregularities in the CSSPS.
“A few weeks ago, we got national security to arrest three suspects who were interrogated. You’ll remember I mentioned a case where someone with an aggregate of 37 claimed to have been placed in a Category A school — that came from the earlier arrest,” he explained.
He assured the public that the Ministry of Education has implemented stronger security protocols and restricted access to the CSSPS portal to prevent tampering and ensure transparency.
“We’ve limited access to the portal as part of our management strategy. Even as Minister, I don’t have access. The deputy, the chief director, and the GES director also don’t have access. This system ensures individual accountability,” he said.
Mr. Iddrisu acknowledged that while the placement system is not without challenges, the Ministry is committed to addressing the flaws in future exercises.
“Those expecting miracles this year may be disappointed, but I assure you we’re working to fix these problems going forward,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Education Minister also announced that Cabinet has approved the absorption and payment of salary arrears for 6,200 teachers who have been working for months without pay.
“A few weeks ago, we received a petition from teachers frustrated over unpaid salaries. I’m pleased to announce that Cabinet has approved their absorption. They will soon receive their staff IDs and back pay,” he said.
Mr. Iddrisu further disclosed that Cabinet has authorised the Ministry of Finance to vire approximately GH¢1.1 billion to settle outstanding payments owed to both health workers and teachers.
“Cabinet has given the Finance Minister approval to vire about GH¢1.1 billion to cover arrears for categories of health workers and teachers. The process will begin soon, so there’s no need for further picketing,” he concluded.
Story By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem