Privacy Policy

The Centre for National Distance Learning and Open Schooling (CENDLOS) is a public agency under Ghana’s Ministry of Education responsible for coordinating and regulating the use of educational technology, open and distance learning (ODL), and digital content delivery in Ghana. As a national EdTech agency, CENDLOS is committed to protecting the privacy and personal information of all individuals who access our platforms, programs, and services.

This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, share, and safeguard your personal data in line with Ghana’s Data Protection Act, 2012 (Act 843), and global best practices. By engaging with CENDLOS platforms or services, you agree to the terms outlined here.

Information We Collect

We may collect personal information directly from you or through authorized educational institutions and partners when you:

• Access or register on our open and distance learning platforms (e.g., online schools, TV or radio-based education)
• Participate in remote learning programs, trainings, or ICT clinics
• Fill out surveys, assessments, or feedback forms provided by CENDLOS
• Contact us via email, telephone, our websites, or mobile applications

The information collected may include your name, age, gender, contact details, learning records, device and access information, educational history, school affiliation, and in some cases, images or recordings if you participate in monitored or recorded sessions.

Purpose of Data Collection

We collect and use personal information to support the planning, delivery, monitoring, and evaluation of open and distance learning services. This data helps us to:

• Provide learners with access to digital education tools and platforms
• Improve content, usability, and delivery of online, radio, and television education services
• Track engagement, learning progress, and reach of CENDLOS initiatives
• Provide support to educators and learners during remote instruction
• Report on program performance to government and development partners

Use of Cookies and Analytics

When you visit our websites or use our platforms, we may collect technical data such as your IP address, browser type, device used, time spent, and pages visited. We use cookies and analytics tools to:

• Enhance your user experience
• Monitor and analyze system performance
• Remember your preferences or learning history

You can disable cookies in your browser settings, although this may affect some features of our platforms.

Consent and Your Rights

By using our platforms or participating in our programs, you consent to the collection and use of your data as described in this policy. CENDLOS will always seek clear and informed consent where required, especially in cases involving minors or sensitive information.

In accordance with the Ghana Data Protection Act, you have the right to:

• Access your personal data held by CENDLOS
• Request correction of inaccurate or incomplete data
• Withdraw your consent (where applicable)
• File a complaint with the Data Protection Commission of Ghana

Children and Learner Data

As CENDLOS serves learners of all ages, including children, we take special care when collecting and using data about minors. Where applicable, consent from a parent, guardian, or school authority will be required for users under the age of 13.

We do not knowingly collect personal data from children without such consent, and any unauthorized collection will be deleted upon discovery.

Sharing of Information

Your personal information may be shared only under the following conditions:

• With educational institutions or district offices implementing CENDLOS programs
• With IT service providers supporting our learning platforms (under confidentiality agreements)
• With national or regional education authorities as part of reporting or compliance
• With development or impact partners for program evaluation—with safeguards in place
• With your explicit consent

Data from Partner Institutions

We may receive data about learners or educators from schools, community partners, or other government institutions. These organizations are responsible for ensuring the data shared has been collected lawfully, with the appropriate consent.

Data Retention and Security

CENDLOS retains your data only for as long as is necessary to deliver and evaluate our educational services or to meet legal obligations. When data is no longer required, it is securely deleted or anonymized.

We implement strict administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your information from unauthorized access, loss, or misuse.

International Transfers

While most of our data is stored in Ghana, some digital tools or cloud services we use may process data in other countries. In such cases, we ensure your information is protected with appropriate legal and security measures in line with international data protection standards.

Policy Updates

This Privacy Policy may be revised from time to time to reflect changes in our services, legal obligations, or technology. Updated versions will be posted on our website with a revised “last updated” date.

Last updated: July 2025