The Executive Director of the Ghana National Council of Private Schools (GNACOPS), Obenfo Nana Kwasi Gyetuah, has dismissed claims that parents are compelled to purchase textbooks from private schools while explaining why prices of books sold in schools may differ from those on the open market.
Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem morning show, Mr Gyetuah said GNACOPS had engaged publishers after receiving complaints from parents who claimed they could buy the same textbooks at lower prices from bookstores and other outlets.
“We had a meeting and we told the public about the issue, and we also gave advice to parents and school heads.
“We met with the publishers because we heard parents saying that when they go out to buy the books, they are not as expensive as the ones sold in schools,” he said.
According to Mr. Gyetuah, publishers explained that the difference in prices was partly due to the payment arrangements between schools and publishers.
He said private schools could receive textbooks on credit and pay for them over several months, while retailers who purchase the books wholesale typically make full payment upfront.
“The publishers explained to us that the reason for the slight difference between the prices in private schools and those outside is that, for private schools, the publishers can give the books to you on credit for maybe one year, six months, or one academic term,” he said.
“But the person who buys the books wholesale to go and sell makes payment in full. So, there is no bank interest or anything on it, and that is what brings the difference.”
Mr. Gyetuah said GNACOPS subsequently appealed to publishers to review their pricing for schools to make the books more affordable for parents.
“So we met with the publishers and suggested that if they can give the books to the schools at a more competitive price, it will help reduce the pressure on parents. They have agreed to look at it and do something about the prices,” he said.
He said GNACOPS was also working with the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) to improve public awareness about approved textbooks.
“We have also asked NaCCA to come and check the approved books and publish the list so everyone will know which books have been approved,” he added.
Mr. Gyetuah stressed that the discussion around textbook pricing was not a one-time issue, saying GNACOPS would continue engaging schools, parents, and publishers whenever schools were preparing to reopen.
“This discussion comes up anytime schools are about to resume, so we have to continue creating awareness among parents so that we can all work together to help the children,” he said.
His comments come amid renewed concerns over the cost of textbooks and other learning materials, which have continued to create tension between some parents and school authorities.
Also read:
