The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has issued a public clarification on the status of distance learning centres operated by public universities, addressing what it describes as widespread misinformation circulating in recent discussions. The Commission emphasised that accredited universities remain recognised, but cautioned that not all distance learning centres linked to these institutions are automatically approved.

The clarification follows public concerns over the legitimacy of some distance learning centres across the country. GTEC noted that while institutions such as University of Education, Winneba (UEW), University of Cape Coast (UCC), University for Development Studies (UDS), and University of Ghana (UG) are fully accredited, their distance learning operations must meet specific regulatory requirements.

According to GTEC, the public should not interpret its regulatory actions as a blanket rejection of distance education programmes offered by these universities. Instead, the focus remains on ensuring that all learning centres meet approved standards before they are allowed to operate.

Accreditation Is Location-Specific

GTEC stressed that accreditation for distance learning is not automatically transferred across locations. Each study centre must undergo separate evaluation and approval based on its facilities, staffing, and support systems.The Commission explained that even when a centre is affiliated with an accredited university, it cannot operate legally without specific approval.

Requirements include adequate infrastructure, qualified facilitators, access to library and ICT resources, and proper learner support systems.This clarification aligns with earlier regulatory actions by GTEC, which have targeted unapproved learning centres operating in unsuitable environments.

In 2025, the Commission shut down 149 unaccredited distance learning centres across Ghana, many of which were located in inappropriate facilities.These centres, according to GTEC, were often operating in spaces that did not meet the standards required for tertiary education, raising concerns about quality and credibility.

Concerns Over Unapproved Learning Centres

The Commission identified several locations where unapproved distance learning activities have been prevalent. These include secondary schools, company training centres, and religious venues such as churches.GTEC noted that such environments are generally not designed to support tertiary-level education and often lack the infrastructure and academic oversight required.

As a result, any distance learning centre operating in these locations without proper evaluation and approval is not recognised.The Commission warned that enrolling in such centres could pose risks to students, including potential issues with certification, employment, and further education opportunities.

Regulators have consistently emphasised that the proliferation of unapproved centres undermines the integrity of distance education. In previous statements, GTEC highlighted that some centres were being run in makeshift locations, including churches and public offices, which are unsuitable for academic programmes.

These concerns have informed ongoing efforts to strengthen oversight and ensure that all distance learning delivery meets national standards.

GTEC Supports Distance Learning with Conditions

Despite the concerns, GTEC reaffirmed its support for distance learning as an important and strategic mode of delivering tertiary education. The Commission noted that distance education plays a key role in expanding access, particularly for working professionals and students in remote areas.

However, it emphasised that such programmes must meet clearly defined standards. These include appropriate physical and digital infrastructure, qualified academic staff, strong quality assurance systems, and formal approval of each study centre.

Institutions offering distance learning programmes have therefore been encouraged to regularise their operations by submitting all centres for inspection and accreditation.The Commission’s position reflects a broader effort to strengthen the credibility of distance education in Ghana while ensuring that expansion does not compromise quality.

Public Advisory to Prospective Students

GTEC has advised prospective students and the general public to verify the accreditation status of any distance learning centre before enrolling. The Commission urged individuals to consult directly with GTEC or the relevant university’s distance education directorate rather than relying on social media claims or unofficial information.

This advisory is particularly important given the increasing demand for flexible learning options and the growing number of centres offering distance education services.The Commission stressed that informed decision-making is essential to protecting students from enrolling in unapproved programmes that may not be recognised.

The clarification by GTEC highlights the importance of maintaining quality and accountability in Ghana’s tertiary education sector. While distance learning continues to provide valuable opportunities for access and flexibility, the Commission maintains that strict regulatory oversight is necessary.

By distinguishing between accredited institutions and approved study centres, GTEC aims to protect the integrity of the education system and safeguard the interests of students.

Ultimately, the Commission’s message is clear: distance learning remains a valid and supported pathway, but only when delivered through properly approved and resourced centres that meet national standards.