WAEC has, however, debunked the assertions by the private schools.

Assurance

The private schools' petition was presented by the Executive Director of the Ghana National Council of Private Schools, Obenfo Nana Kwasi Gyetuah, with support from the Greater Accra President of the Ghana National Association of Private Schools, Dr Aisha Asi Akrofi.

Explaining the minister's absence, Dr Apaak said the minister had been engaged in other official duties but specifically instructed him to receive the petition.

"The minister would have been here himself. As you know, he's a very engaging, affable, open and transparent minister. But other very important duties, of course, have kept him away.

He has directed me to meet you this morning and to receive this petition on his behalf. And that is exactly why I am here."

Administration

He stressed that President John Dramani Mahama's administration recognised the indispensable role of private schools in Ghana's education system and remains committed to treating every Ghanaian child fairly, regardless of the type of school they attend.

"Be assured that President Mahama's government and our Minister of Education believe strongly in the role the private sector has to play in the very important delivery of education."

He added, "We believe that every Ghanaian child, regardless of whether they are enrolled in a public or a private school, is a Ghanaian child, deserves fairness, deserves equity. Because government alone, the state alone, cannot shoulder the burden of providing education."

Dr Apaak said the current administration had demonstrated its commitment to private education by involving the sector in government programmes and decision-making structures.

He noted that private secondary schools have been included in the implementation of the Free Senior High School policy, while private universities are also receiving government support to strengthen research and faculty development.

Direction

"This government, under the leadership of President Mahama and the direction of the minister, has reached out, more than any other government in the Republic, to the private school sector.

We have included you in all activities and programmes, even including councils and boards.

And that should tell you that we value your contribution."

On the petition itself, the deputy minister assured the association that the concerns would not be ignored and that the ministry would handle the matter with fairness and transparency.

"The minister would not look the other way when there are issues that may negatively affect the capacity, ability and credibility of the private schools in contributing to the human capital development of our Republic through education."

He further assured the association that the petition would be submitted to the minister for the necessary action.

Petition

"Be rest assured that the petition will reach the minister and as will be expected, he will do the needful openly, transparently and in a manner that will let you understand that indeed we value your contribution."

However, Dr Apaak emphasised that while the government welcomes the call for an investigation, it would not prejudge the issues raised until all parties had been heard.

He endorsed a thorough investigation into the allegations.