Education & Exams

Ghana Education Service (GES): Latest News Today

Follow the latest from the Ghana Education Service (GES) in one place. This hub gathers our newest reporting on GES postings and recruitment, policy changes and circulars, the academic calendar, and teacher and staffing updates. Education announcements move quickly and affect schools, teachers and parents across the country, so we keep this page current as new coverage is published. For official notices, confirm details through the Ghana Education Service. The most recent stories are listed below.

Kwabena Gao (left), Education Specialist, Right to Play, in a cheerful moood with invited dignitaries and participants after the meeting. Picture: BENEDICT OBUOBI
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Ghana’s Education Sector Eyes Reform Through Play-Based Learning and Nkrumah’s Philosophical Legacy

Ghana’s educational landscape is currently undergoing a significant transformation as stakeholders push for both pedagogical innovation and a more culturally grounded curriculum. Recent initiatives led by the National Teaching Council (NTC) and academic leaders like Sir Sam Jonah highlight a dual focus: equipping teachers with modern, play-based instructional skills and ensuring students engage deeply with the philosophical legacy of Ghana’s founding father, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. These efforts aim to move beyond traditional rote learning toward a more interactive and identity-conscious educational experience for the next generation. Central to this pedagogical shift is a blended play-based learning program spearheaded by Right to Play Ghana in collaboration with the NTC. The initiative seeks to bridge the gap between theoretical training and actual classroom practice by equipping educators with the tools to deliver the national curriculum more effectively. Of the 4,455 teachers who enrolled in the program across various districts, 2,565 have successfully completed their certification. Leaders such as Kwabena Gao of Right to Play Ghana and Dr. Issahaque Munawaru from the Ghana Education Service (GES) have emphasized that the ultimate success of the curriculum depends on ongoing professional development and follow-up support to ensure these techniques translate into improved student engagement. While the NTC focuses on instructional methods, the Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Sir Sam Jonah, is championing a reform of curriculum content to include the intellectual heritage of the nation. Speaking at the 15th Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Lectures, Dr. Jonah urged the integration of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s ideas on African unity and self-determination into the national school system. He observed that many students currently recognize the first president only through physical monuments rather than his substantive philosophies. By teaching Nkrumah’s views on Pan-Africanism and constitutionalism, Dr. Jonah believes Ghana can better prepare its youth to navigate contemporary challenges with a sense of historical purpose and African agency. These developments reflect a broader consensus that the future of Ghanaian education lies in a balance of technical teaching proficiency and historical relevance. As the NTC and organizations like Right to Play continue to monitor the impact of play-based learning in schools, academic institutions like UCC are positioning themselves to lead the intellectual integration of national history. Together, these initiatives signal a move toward a more holistic educational framework that prioritizes teacher professionalism, student-centered learning, and a deep-seated appreciation for the nation's founding principles.

NCPTA Challenges GES Over School Dues as High Court Reinstates Bolgatanga Technical University Vice Chancellor
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NCPTA Challenges GES Over School Dues as High Court Reinstates Bolgatanga Technical University Vice Chancellor

The National Council of Parent Teacher Association (NCPTA) has formally challenged a directive from the Ghana Education Service (GES) that prohibits Senior High Schools (SHS) from collecting PTA dues and levies. Issued on September 23, 2026, the GES directive instructed school heads to immediately halt the collection of all unauthorized fees, citing complaints from parents regarding admission charges and mandatory PTA contributions. The GES emphasized that under the Free Senior High School policy, no student should be denied admission or access to services due to unpaid fees. However, the NCPTA argued on September 24 that this directive directly contradicts a High Court injunction granted on July 21, 2026, which was intended to preserve the status quo during an ongoing legal dispute between the association and the government. According to the NCPTA, while membership and the payment of dues are voluntary, the GES directive interferes with the association's operational rights. The council has expressed its intention to seek further clarification from the GES while urging its branches to continue lawful operations in accordance with previous court orders. The GES has warned school heads that failure to comply with the freeze on unauthorized fees will result in administrative sanctions and has mandated that any such fees already collected must be refunded. This tension highlights a deepening conflict between the regulatory authority of the GES and the independent management of parent-teacher organizations across the country's public schools. In a parallel legal development within the tertiary sector, the High Court in Bolgatanga has ruled that the removal of Professor Samuel Erasmus Alnaa as the Vice Chancellor of Bolgatanga Technical University (BTU) was illegal. The court found that the Governing Council's decision to terminate his appointment, along with two other officers, was flawed due to a lack of a required quorum during the meeting where the decision was reached. Furthermore, the court declared the formation of the Special Investigative Committee that led to these terminations as illegal, effectively nullifying the council's actions. The court’s ruling has ordered the immediate reinstatement of Professor Alnaa and the two other affected officers to their respective positions at the university. This judgment marks a significant victory for administrative due process in Ghana’s higher education institutions, underscoring the necessity for governing councils to adhere strictly to statutory procedures. As both the NCPTA and the leadership at BTU navigate these judicial outcomes, the education sector faces a period of recalibration where institutional directives must increasingly withstand rigorous legal scrutiny.

A rural classroom setting in Ghana where students are learning under a makeshift pavilion constructed with wooden pillars and a corrugated metal roof. Two whiteboards are visible, one displaying a mathematics lesson with tally marks and the other an English grammar lesson about nouns, illustrating the infrastructure challenges in the educational sector.
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Education Minister Announces Furniture Procurement to End Double-Track System as Rural Schools Face Infrastructure Crisis

The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has announced a significant furniture procurement initiative aimed at phasing out the double-track system in Senior High Schools (SHSs) across Ghana. During a monitoring visit to the Western Region, including Tarkwa Senior High School, the Minister revealed that many institutions possess sufficient classroom infrastructure but remain on the double-track system solely due to a lack of desks and chairs. In collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, the government plans to target these specific schools to increase their student capacity, allowing them to transition to a more efficient single-track academic calendar. This move is part of a broader strategy to enhance secondary education accessibility and quality nationwide. While the government focuses on logistical improvements in the SHS sector, primary education in rural communities continues to face severe infrastructure and staffing challenges. In Bresuano, located in the Atebubu-Amantin Municipality of the Bono East Region, pupils from Kindergarten to Primary Six are currently forced to learn in a dilapidated pavilion without partitions or doors. The teacher shortage is equally dire; only two teachers manage the entire school, with one teacher, Madam Magnus George Rita, responsible for four classes simultaneously. In response, the Municipal Assembly, led by Chief Executive Thomas Maswud Musah Ayarba, has begun constructing a new six-unit classroom block and has promised to post additional teachers once the facility is complete to align with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4). Compounding these infrastructure issues are administrative concerns within the Ghana School Feeding Programme. National Coordinator Hajia Fati Forgor has expressed alarm over the inflation of school enrollment figures by some head teachers, a practice she warns deprives genuinely needy schools of resources. During a workshop for Ghana Education Service (GES) officials, she called for a cleanup of enrollment data to ensure the fair distribution of funds. Simultaneously, the GES is urging local communities to support the program by providing adequate kitchen facilities. With over 12,000 schools lacking proper cooking infrastructure, officials emphasized that community involvement is vital for maintaining food safety and hygiene while incorporating indigenous meals into the school menu. These collective developments highlight the complex challenges facing the Ghanaian education sector, from high-level policy transitions to fundamental resource gaps in deprived areas. As the Ministry of Education works to resolve furniture shortages at the secondary level, the focus remains on bridging the gap for rural basic schools that lack the necessary environment for quality learning. The government’s commitment to universal school feeding and infrastructure expansion serves as the primary mechanism for ensuring that all students, regardless of their location, can access inclusive and equitable education.

Haruna Iddrisu, Minister of Education, addressing some students during his visit to the Western Region
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Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu Announces GH¢4.2 Billion Allocation for SHS Feeding as GES Releases Essential Funds

The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has announced that the government has allocated GH¢4.2 billion specifically for the feeding of students under the Free Senior High School (SHS) program. This significant financial commitment is intended to ensure uninterrupted feeding services as schools across the country reopen for the 2026/2027 academic year. To support this effort, President John Mahama has directed an immediate review of the SHS menu, with a focus on enhancing meal quality by incorporating more protein-rich foods, such as eggs and chicken, into daily student diets. In tandem with the Minister's announcement, the Ghana Education Service (GES) has confirmed the successful transfer of funds into the accounts of various Senior High Schools and Senior High Technical Schools (SHTSs). These funds are designated for perishable supplies covering the period from March 1 to September 4, 2026, as well as part payment for recurring items necessary for first-year students for the 2025/2026 academic cycle. The GES Management has instructed Regional Directors to notify school heads of these transfers immediately to facilitate smooth operations as the new term begins. During a recent monitoring tour of educational facilities in the Western Region, Minister Iddrisu assessed student welfare and facility standards, reiterating the administration's dedication to maintaining a stable educational environment. While the government highlights these financial and nutritional improvements, the current admission process for new students has drawn a variety of responses from the public. Some parents have praised the efficiency of the registration cycle, while others have reported encountering cumbersome procedures that have slowed the enrollment of their wards. To ensure transparency and accountability regarding the newly released funds, the GES has reminded all school heads of their obligation to submit official receipts to the Director-General. Management emphasized that compliance with these administrative directives is mandatory for all participating institutions. As the 2026/2027 academic year progresses, the government maintains that these proactive financial measures and dietary improvements will provide the necessary foundation for student success and institutional stability.

Ghana Education Service to Make Sign Language a Compulsory Subject in Basic Schools Within Five Years
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Ghana Education Service to Make Sign Language a Compulsory Subject in Basic Schools Within Five Years

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has announced a significant policy shift that will see Sign Language integrated as a compulsory subject within the national basic school curriculum over the next five years. Ms. Gloria Ntim, representing the Special Education Division (SPED) of the GES, revealed this initiative during a forum commemorating the International Day of Sign Languages. The move is designed to dismantle communication barriers and foster a more inclusive educational environment, ensuring that deaf and hard-of-hearing students are better integrated into the broader Ghanaian society. As a primary step toward this national rollout, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) has officially approved a pilot program. This initial phase will be implemented in selected special schools across the country, allowing the GES to refine the curriculum and teaching methodologies before the subject is introduced to the general student population. Educational stakeholders have praised the decision, noting that making Sign Language a core component of basic education is a fundamental step toward protecting the communication rights of all citizens, regardless of their physical abilities. The announcement coincides with intensified calls from disability rights advocates for the swift passage of the Persons with Disabilities Bill, 2026. During the commemorative events, various speakers emphasized that robust legislative support is essential to empowering individuals with disabilities and ensuring equitable access to public services. Advocates and representatives from the Ghana National Association of the Deaf (GNAD) also stressed the vital role of parents and caregivers, urging them to become active partners in the inclusive education process to support the linguistic development of children with hearing impairments. These developments form a central part of the activities marking the International Week of the Deaf, which runs from September 21 to 27, 2026. The week-long celebration focuses on promoting the inclusion of the deaf community in national development and raising awareness about their unique cultural and linguistic identity. By transitioning Sign Language from a specialized skill to a standard part of the Ghanaian education system, the government aims to drive long-term systemic change that prioritizes equality and accessibility for every child in the country.

GES orders SHS, SHTS heads to stop collecting unauthorised fees and levies
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GES and TVET Service Crack Down on Unauthorized Fees and Mandatory School Item Sales

The Ghana Education Service (GES) and the Ghana TVET Service have launched a major crackdown on the collection of unauthorized fees and the compulsory sale of school items in Senior High Schools (SHS) and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions across the country. These directives, issued in late September 2026, are part of a broader effort to enforce the government’s Free SHS and Free TVET policies. Authorities have warned school heads that any violation of these guidelines will result in severe administrative sanctions, including potential removal from office, as the government seeks to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent students from accessing secondary education. According to reports from Graphic Online and Citi Newsroom, the GES has specifically ordered school heads to immediately cease the collection of admission fees and Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) dues, the latter of which is currently on hold pending legal proceedings. Furthermore, the GES is investigating complaints that some schools are forcing parents to purchase prospectus items—such as uniforms and personal storage containers—directly from the institution at inflated prices rather than allowing them to buy from the open market. GES Public Relations Officer Daniel Fenyi clarified that while schools may offer items for sale, they cannot make such purchases mandatory. In a parallel move, the Ghana TVET Service has cautioned institutions against imposing unapproved processing fees and other compulsory payments during the admissions cycle. To ensure transparency and fairness, the service has deployed Academic Calendar Monitoring Teams to various institutions to assess admission procedures in real-time. The TVET Service emphasized that these unauthorized charges undermine public trust in the national Free TVET initiative. Both the GES and TVET Service have urged parents and guardians to resist paying any unapproved levies and to report such incidents to the relevant authorities for swift action. This coordinated enforcement effort highlights the government's commitment to maintaining the integrity of its free education flagship programs. By mandating the refund of illegally collected fees and investigating price gouging on school supplies, the education regulators aim to ease the financial burden on Ghanaian households. As the academic year progresses, the focus remains on ensuring that the admission process is transparent and that no student is denied entry to school due to unauthorized financial demands.

Teacher Unions GNAT, NAGRAT, and CCT Issue September 24 Deadline to Resolve Promotion Arrears
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Teacher Unions GNAT, NAGRAT, and CCT Issue September 24 Deadline to Resolve Promotion Arrears

Ghana's three primary teacher unions—the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Coalition of Concerned Teachers (CCT)—have issued a stern ultimatum to the government regarding unresolved labor issues. The unions have set a firm deadline of midday on Thursday, September 24, 2026, for the administration to address long-standing grievances related to promotion salaries and outstanding arrears. This move highlights growing tension between the education sector's workforce and the government as teachers demand the fulfillment of previous agreements. The core of the dispute lies in the government's perceived failure to implement agreed-upon promotion placements that date back to 2025. According to the unions, many teachers who successfully underwent promotion processes have yet to see the corresponding adjustments in their salary grades or receive the backdated arrears owed to them. The frustration among the unions stems from what they describe as a lack of urgency in addressing these financial obligations, which has left thousands of educators in a state of financial uncertainty despite their career advancements. The leadership of GNAT, NAGRAT, and CCT has warned that the failure to meet the September 24 deadline could lead to significant industrial unrest within the education sector. While the unions have called for their members to remain calm and professional in the interim, they have also signaled that they are preparing for coordinated action should the government fail to act. This potential labor unrest could disrupt the academic calendar and affect students across the country, as the unions emphasize that their members' patience is rapidly depleting. As the deadline approaches, the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service (GES) are under increasing pressure to provide a clear roadmap for the settlement of these arrears. This labor dispute represents a significant challenge for the President John Mahama administration, which is navigating the fiscal complexities of implementing multi-year salary adjustments. The outcome of the coming days will determine whether the education sector maintains stability or faces a period of prolonged strikes, as the unions remain steadfast in their demand for the immediate disbursement of all outstanding promotion-related payments.

GES and TVET Service Launch Crackdown on Unauthorized Admission Fees and Mandatory Prospectus Sales
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GES and TVET Service Launch Crackdown on Unauthorized Admission Fees and Mandatory Prospectus Sales

The Ghana Education Service (GES) and the Ghana TVET Service have issued stern warnings and launched investigations into Senior High Schools (SHS) and technical institutions over the collection of unauthorized fees and the compulsory sale of school supplies. These directives, announced on September 22, 2026, come in response to numerous complaints from parents regarding financial barriers imposed during the ongoing admissions cycle. Both regulatory bodies emphasized that such practices undermine the government's commitment to equitable access to education and the integrity of the Free TVET policy. The GES is specifically probing reports that some SHS heads are compelling parents to purchase prospectus items directly from the schools at inflated prices rather than allowing them to buy from the open market. Daniel Fenyi, the GES Public Relations Officer, clarified that while schools may offer items for sale, they are strictly prohibited from making these purchases mandatory. Furthermore, the GES has issued guidance to ensure no student is denied admission due to financial constraints, including a specific directive against rejecting students based on the type of personal storage containers or trunks they bring to school. Simultaneously, the Ghana TVET Service has cautioned Technical and Vocational Education and Training institutions against charging unapproved admission processing fees or requiring the purchase of prospectuses. The Service stated that these actions violate the mandates of the Free TVET policy, which aims to provide quality vocational training without unnecessary costs to families. To enforce compliance, the TVET Service is deploying Academic Calendar Monitoring Teams nationwide to assess admission processes. Heads of institutions found to be facilitating unauthorized charges have been warned they will face swift disciplinary action. These coordinated efforts by education authorities are designed to protect parents from exploitation and ensure a transparent enrollment process. Parents and guardians have been urged not to make any payments outside of officially approved fees and to report any instances of extortion or unauthorized demands to the appropriate authorities. By maintaining strict oversight, the GES and TVET Service aim to ensure that the transition to secondary and vocational education remains accessible to all Ghanaian children, regardless of their economic background.

Spokesperson for Dr. Adutwum Alleges Administrative Turf War Compromising Free SHS Program
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Spokesperson for Dr. Adutwum Alleges Administrative Turf War Compromising Free SHS Program

A spokesperson for Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum has alleged that a 'turf war' between the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service (GES) is undermining the stability of the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) program. The core of the disagreement reportedly involves the admission figures for approximately 60,000 students, a discrepancy that has caused significant delays in the release of essential funds to secondary schools across the country. This administrative deadlock is leaving many school heads unable to meet basic operational costs, creating a burgeoning crisis in the education sector. The consequences of these funding delays are already being felt on the ground, with reports emerging that schools have ceased providing certain items previously covered by the government. Specifically, uniforms and housedresses—which were designed to be free under the policy—are allegedly being sold to parents by some institutions. The spokesperson described these sales as a 'silent protest' from school administrators who are struggling to keep their doors open in the face of inadequate financial support. The shift from free provision to direct sales marks a significant departure from the established norms of the Free SHS initiative. There are growing concerns that if the impasse between the Ministry and the GES is not resolved promptly, the situation could escalate to widespread school closures. The spokesperson warned that the current lack of coordination is pushing the educational system toward a breaking point. As the government navigates these administrative challenges, the priority remains ensuring that the 60,000 students at the heart of the dispute, and their peers nationwide, do not suffer further academic or financial disruptions due to internal governance failures.

Archbishop Charles Palmer-Buckle Cautions Against 'Protocol' Admissions to Protect Catholic School Standards
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Archbishop Charles Palmer-Buckle Cautions Against 'Protocol' Admissions to Protect Catholic School Standards

The Metropolitan Archbishop of Cape Coast, Most Reverend Charles Palmer-Buckle, has issued a stern warning to Catholic parents against using improper influence, commonly referred to as "protocol," to secure admissions for underperforming children in Catholic schools. Speaking at the 80th Anniversary Lecture of St Paul’s Commandery, the Archbishop emphasized that such practices risk diluting the academic excellence and high standards for which Catholic educational institutions are known across Ghana. He urged parents to prioritize merit and focus on supporting their children’s educational development rather than relying on social or religious status to bypass competitive admission processes. Archbishop Palmer-Buckle clarified that being a member of the Catholic Church does not serve as a guaranteed ticket for admission into these prestigious institutions. He expressed concern that when parents use influence to place children in schools they may not be academically prepared for, it places an undue burden on the schools and can lead to a decline in overall performance. Instead of seeking shortcuts, the Archbishop encouraged parents to actively engage in their children's learning journey, ensuring they meet the required benchmarks through hard work and discipline. The discourse on admissions comes amid a significant policy shift by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference. In 2025, the Conference decided to advocate for reserving 20% of admissions in Catholic schools specifically for Catholic candidates. While this policy aims to preserve the Catholic identity of these schools, the Archbishop’s latest comments serve as a reminder that this quota should not be exploited to lower educational standards. As the dialogue between the Church and the Ghana Education Service continues, the focus remains on balancing religious heritage with the pursuit of academic rigor and integrity in the national education system.

Ghana Education Service Prohibits SHS Heads from Rejecting Students Over Trunk and Chop Box Types
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Ghana Education Service Prohibits SHS Heads from Rejecting Students Over Trunk and Chop Box Types

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a stern directive to heads of Senior High Schools (SHS) and Senior High Technical Schools (SHTS) across the country, prohibiting them from denying boarding accommodation to newly admitted students based on the type of storage containers they bring. This move comes in response to numerous reports of schools turning away students who arrived with traditional metal trunks or wooden chop boxes that did not align with specific, often more expensive, institutional preferences. The directive aims to ensure that no student is denied their right to education based on their choice of personal storage. The GES emphasized that this intervention is primarily aimed at alleviating the mounting financial pressures on parents and guardians. By mandating the acceptance of various container types, the Service seeks to ensure that students from diverse economic backgrounds are treated with equity and respect. The directive clarifies that as long as the storage items are of a "reasonable size" and do not pose a safety risk to other students or the school environment, they must be permitted within the boarding houses. This policy is intended to prevent schools from imposing unnecessary costs on families who may already be struggling with other educational expenses. In its official communication, the Service warned that any school head found to be in violation of these instructions would face severe disciplinary action according to service regulations. The GES has committed to investigating all reported cases of discrimination or refusal of admission linked to storage preferences. This strict stance highlights the government's broader effort to minimize barriers to entry for students entering the secondary education cycle, reinforcing the principle that institutional preferences should not supersede student access. As the reporting date for new students approaches, the GES's directive serves as a critical reminder to educational administrators of their obligation to facilitate a smooth transition for all learners. The Service maintains that no student should be penalized or marginalized due to their financial circumstances, ensuring that the start of the academic year is defined by academic readiness rather than the material quality of a student's luggage. This directive is expected to provide significant relief to thousands of households during the current admission cycle.

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Nicholas Boadi Baafi Calls for Urgent CSSPS Reform Amid Placement Crisis Affecting 55,000 Students

The Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) is currently facing significant operational hurdles, leading to a crisis that has left approximately 55,000 students without initial school placements. Mr. Nicholas Boadi Baafi, the former Free SHS Coordinator for the Oti Region, has identified management weaknesses and recent system changes as the primary drivers of this year's placement difficulties. While the CSSPS has experienced periodic challenges since its 2005 inception, Baafi noted that the current resurgence of issues in 2025 coincides with the transition of personnel following the change in government, suggesting a loss of institutional memory and expertise within the system's administration. Baafi specifically criticized the lack of adequate training for officials overseeing the current school selection process. A major point of contention is the new approach where students select their preferred schools after receiving their examination results. Although this shift was intended to streamline the process by matching students to schools based on actual performance, Baafi argues it has instead yielded widespread confusion. Furthermore, the decision to allow students to select two Category A schools has significantly heightened expectations and increased anxiety among parents and candidates as competition for top-tier institutions intensified, leading to a higher volume of unplaced students. Beyond the technical failures of the placement system, Baafi highlighted broader educational disparities, particularly within the Oti Region. He pointed to persistent teacher shortages as a critical barrier to student performance, which in turn complicates the placement process when students do not meet the competitive thresholds of their chosen schools. He warned that the success of the Free SHS policy is being undermined by these administrative and structural gaps, which require immediate attention from the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service. In his concluding remarks, the former coordinator urged the government and educational stakeholders to adopt a strictly non-partisan approach to school placement and general educational policy. Baafi asserted that the focus must remain on the academic success and well-being of all Ghanaian children, rather than political considerations. He called for the reintegration of experienced hands who understand the nuances of the Free SHS policy to stabilize the CSSPS and ensure that no student is left behind due to technical or managerial inefficiency.

A group of officials and traditional leaders are seen during a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the commissioning of new school blocks. A man in a suit cuts the ceremonial white ribbon with scissors while holding a microphone, flanked by a traditional chief in vibrant kente cloth. In the background, school children and community members gather under event tents for the occasion.
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Atwima Nwabiagya North DCE Commissions First-Ever School Blocks for Nketia and Akwaboa

Mr. Mba Zechariah Alenbilla, the District Chief Executive (DCE) for Atwima Nwabiagya North, has inaugurated the first-ever kindergarten and primary school blocks for the Nketia and Akwaboa communities in the Ashanti Region. This milestone development ends years of hardship for local children who, until now, were forced to travel to neighboring communities to access basic education. Funded through the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF), the new infrastructure is designed to provide a foundational learning environment within the immediate reach of the two communities, significantly reducing the risks and fatigue associated with long-distance travel for young learners. During the commissioning ceremony, Mr. Alenbilla emphasized that these projects align with President John Dramani Mahama’s priorities to enhance local education and social amenities across the country. The DCE urged the residents to demonstrate a strong sense of ownership and cooperation to ensure the facilities are well-maintained. He also issued a stern warning to the public against using the classrooms for improper behaviors or non-academic activities, stressing that the integrity of the learning environment must be preserved for the benefit of the students. Providing technical and administrative assurance, the District Director of Education, Mr. Frank Duah Boateng, announced that the Ghana Education Service is prepared to post teachers to the new schools immediately. He encouraged parents in the area to prioritize their children's future by registering them for the upcoming academic term. While celebrating the new blocks, community leaders, led by Akwaboahene Nana Kusi Agyapong Appau I, noted that this is only the first step. They appealed to the government for further support, specifically citing the need for a Junior High School (JHS) block and improved sanitation facilities to ensure a complete and healthy educational cycle for the local youth.

GES warns schools against unauthorised charges for trunks, uniforms, cutlasses
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GES Warns SHS Heads Over Unauthorized Fees and Student Rejection Due to Storage Containers

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a stern warning to the heads of Senior High and Technical Schools across the country, mandating an immediate end to unauthorized charges and the discriminatory treatment of students. In a directive signed by Deputy Director-General Prof. Smile Dzisi on September 18, 2023, the service emphasized that no student should be denied admission or accommodation based on the specific type of storage container they bring to school, nor should parents be forced to pay unapproved fees for school supplies. The GES directive specifically targets illegal fees being levied on parents for items such as uniforms, metal trunks, and cutlasses. Prof. Dzisi's communication makes it clear that such practices are a violation of approved government guidelines and must cease with immediate effect. School heads found to be imposing these extra-budgetary requirements on families risk facing severe administrative sanctions, as the service seeks to maintain the accessibility and fairness of the public education system. Beyond financial charges, the service also addressed reports of schools turning away students who arrive with certain types of personal storage, such as wooden chop boxes instead of metal trunks. The GES has now mandated that schools must accommodate all admitted students fairly, regardless of whether they possess specific brands or styles of containers. This move is designed to alleviate the undue financial burden often placed on parents during the admission process and to prevent any form of discrimination against students from less privileged backgrounds. To ensure strict compliance, Regional Directors of Education have been instructed to communicate these directives to all relevant institutions within their jurisdictions. The GES has stated that any reported violations will be investigated and dealt with according to existing regulations. This policy enforcement serves as a broader effort to streamline the admission process and protect parents from exploitation during the transition of students into second-cycle institutions.

Haruna Iddrisu — Education Minister
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Ghana Police Arrest Two for CSSPS Placement Fraud as GES Issues Stern Directives to SHS Heads

The Ghana Police Service has arrested two individuals, Vicentia Appiah Antwi, 24, and Suzzy Owusu, 18, for allegedly defrauding parents and Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) graduates seeking senior high school placements. The suspects were apprehended at the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) Resolution Centre in Accra following a tip-off from the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu. The duo is accused of soliciting bribes ranging from GH"9,500 to GH"22,000 by promising to secure preferred school placements. While the suspects have been released on police enquiry bail, investigations continue to track down several named accomplices, including individuals known as Nana Yaw Boateng and Alex Asumani. The Ministry of Education has reiterated that the placement process is entirely free and urged the public to remain vigilant against such fraudulent schemes. Simultaneously, the Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a series of stern directives to heads of Senior High Schools (SHS) and Senior High Technical Schools (SHTS) to ensure a fair admission process. Signed by Deputy Director-General Prof. Smile Dzisi, the GES mandate explicitly prohibits school heads from imposing unauthorized charges or compelling parents to purchase items like uniforms and trunks directly from the schools. Furthermore, the GES has banned the practice of denying accommodation to boarding students based on the type of storage containers they bring, such as metal trunks or wooden chop boxes. The service emphasized that students must be treated fairly regardless of their economic background and warned that any school head found violating these guidelines would face severe disciplinary sanctions. Amidst these enforcement measures, the admission process for the 2026/2027 academic year is progressing across the country. Reports from the Tsito Senior High Technical School in the Volta Region indicate a smooth reporting process, with students arriving with essential items to complete their formalities. Of the 604,567 candidates who qualified for placement this year, 527,932 have been successfully placed. To support this transition, several Members of Parliament and local assemblies have stepped in to alleviate the financial burden on families. In Nkwanta South, MP Geoffrey Kini donated over 200 trunks and mattresses to students, while in the Birim North District, MP Charles Asuako Owiredu provided similar supplies to 2,000 freshers. Similarly, the Kwadaso Municipal Assembly distributed mattresses and chop boxes to 120 graduates to encourage enrollment under the government's Free SHS policy. As the academic term begins, officials are also focusing on the safety and professional environment of schools. During his donation event, Abirem MP Charles Asuako Owiredu issued a strong caution to teachers against engaging in inappropriate sexual relationships with students, emphasizing that educators must maintain professional boundaries to ensure a safe learning environment. This multifaceted approach—combining criminal prosecution of fraudsters, strict administrative oversight by the GES, and community-led financial support—aims to stabilize the secondary education sector and ensure that all qualified students can access their placements without exploitation or discrimination.

NPP Alleges 'Administrative Breakdown' in Mahama Government Over Proposed Arabic and Chinese Language Curriculum
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NPP Alleges 'Administrative Breakdown' in Mahama Government Over Proposed Arabic and Chinese Language Curriculum

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called on President John Mahama to address what it describes as a significant "policy breakdown" and lack of coordination within the education sector. This follows contradictory reports regarding the potential introduction of Arabic and Chinese languages into the public school curriculum. While President Mahama has publicly stated that no such policy has been approved for implementation, the opposition insists that preparatory activities by government agencies indicate the initiative has advanced without proper executive authorization, raising concerns about transparency and administrative integrity. Dr. Kwabena Bempah Tandoh, spokesperson for the NPP’s Education Policy Committee, pointed to specific evidence suggesting a disconnect within the administration. He cited reports, including a September publication in the Daily Graphic, indicating that the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) has already engaged curriculum writers and conducted training workshops for teachers on the Chinese curriculum. Dr. Tandoh argued that these actions directly contradict the President’s denials and signify a lack of stability and predictability in governance, which could ultimately erode the confidence of teachers, students, and parents in the nation's educational system. In response to these allegations, the Ministry of Education has sought to clarify the administrative process. Hashmin Mohammed, Press Secretary to Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu, explained that the proposals to include Arabic and Chinese are currently recommendations from NaCCA and have not yet transitioned into official government policy. According to Mohammed, these recommendations must undergo a rigorous evaluation process, including formal review by the Ghana Education Service (GES), before being presented to the Cabinet for final approval or rejection. He maintained that the ministry is adhering to established procedures and that communicating these recommendations should not be mistaken for a final executive decision. Amidst the political friction, Kofi Asare, Executive Director of Africa Education Watch (EduWatch), has advocated for a more measured approach to the debate. He recommended launching a pilot program in selected public schools to assess the effectiveness and relevance of Mandarin instruction before any nationwide rollout. Asare noted that over 15,000 Ghanaians have already received Mandarin training through various partnerships, providing a solid foundation for the subject. He further argued that such an initiative could help bridge the educational divide, as Chinese language instruction is currently a competitive advantage largely reserved for students in private schools. The controversy has prompted the NPP to demand greater accountability from the executive branch, with some opposition members even calling for the removal of Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu over the handling of the proposal. As the debate continues, stakeholders are looking for a clear path forward that balances international language literacy with administrative transparency. The resolution of this perceived confusion is seen as vital for maintaining the credibility of the National Curriculum Framework and ensuring that educational reforms are both well-coordinated and clearly communicated to the Ghanaian public.

Employees of GCB and pupils of the Oblogo M/A Basic School
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GCB Bank, Ghana Education Service, and OMJ Foundation Launch Major Initiatives to Support Infrastructure and Careers

Ghana's education sector is witnessing a multifaceted wave of support, ranging from critical infrastructure improvements and student scholarships to professional advancement opportunities for staff. In a significant move toward improving early childhood learning environments, employees of GCB Bank PLC’s People & Culture Department have successfully refurbished the nursery block at the Oblogo M/A Basic School in Weija-Gbawe. This project, which addressed hazardous damaged floors and inadequate storage facilities, is part of the bank’s broader 2026 Staff Community Impact Programme (SCIP). The initiative aims to execute 95 community projects across the country, with the Oblogo refurbishment marking the 13th milestone in their journey to impact one million Ghanaians. Parallel to these infrastructure gains, the Ghana Education Service (GES) has announced the opening of promotion applications for eligible non-teaching staff. From September 14 to September 28, 2026, serving members including accountants, administrative officers, and technical personnel can apply for advancement to higher grades. To qualify, applicants must have held their current positions since 2022 and maintain a satisfactory work record. The GES has modernized this process by requiring all applications and supporting documents, including special provisions for those with Master's or PhD qualifications, to be submitted through their online portal, ensuring a streamlined approach to career progression within the service. In the Eastern Region, the OMJ Foundation has further bolstered student access by fulfilling a major scholarship promise to learners in Akuapem South. Osei Mensah Joseph, the foundation’s CEO, presented scholarships and essential school supplies to 12 students through the Basic Education Certificate Examination Preparation Intervention Project (BECEPIP). The program is designed to facilitate a smooth transition for high-performing learners moving into Senior High School. During the presentation, Joseph emphasized that while the foundation provides financial and material support, the sustained academic success of the beneficiaries also relies heavily on parental guidance and personal discipline. These collective efforts from the corporate sector, government agencies, and private foundations highlight a comprehensive approach to educational reform in Ghana. By simultaneously addressing the physical safety of classrooms, the professional motivation of non-teaching personnel, and the financial hurdles faced by transitioning students, these stakeholders are creating a more resilient educational framework. As GCB Bank continues toward its target of 95 projects and the GES processes its latest round of promotions, the focus remains on ensuring that both the providers and recipients of education are well-equipped for the future.

Prof. Kwasi Opoku-Amankwa — for Director-General, GES
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Professor Kwasi Opoku-Amankwa Proposes Conversion of 160 Day Schools to Boarding to Resolve SHS Placement Crisis

Professor Kwasi Opoku-Amankwa, the former Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES), has proposed the conversion of approximately 160 under-enrolled day senior high schools (SHSs) into boarding institutions. Speaking during a panel discussion on September 12, 2026, the former GES boss argued that this strategic shift would help alleviate the intense pressure on the nation's most popular schools while maximizing the utility of under-subscribed facilities. The proposal aims to address recurring placement challenges and ensure a more equitable distribution of students across the country's secondary education infrastructure by making lesser-known schools more attractive to parents. In addition to the boarding school conversion, Professor Opoku-Amankwa advocated for the implementation of a 10-year national program specifically designed to upgrade under-resourced secondary schools. He emphasized that such a long-term roadmap is essential to ensure that schools currently perceived as lower-tier can achieve the high-quality standards expected by the public. To succeed, he stressed that this initiative requires a binding commitment from successive governments to ensure continuity in educational infrastructure development, shielding it from partisan political shifts. Addressing the controversial double-track academic calendar, the former Director-General recommended its temporary retention for the foreseeable future. He cautioned that an immediate removal of the system could lead to a significant deficit in school placements, potentially leaving thousands of students without access to secondary education. By keeping the double-track system in place while the proposed 160 boarding conversions and infrastructure upgrades are executed, the government can manage current enrollment numbers without compromising student access. The proposals have garnered support from various education stakeholders, who underscored the need for improved resource allocation and greater transparency in the school placement process. As Ghana continues to navigate the complexities of universal secondary education under the administration of President John Mahama, these recommendations highlight a growing consensus on the need for structural reforms. The successful integration of these plans could shift the focus from mere enrollment numbers to ensuring sustained academic quality and infrastructural equity across all regions of the country.

GES Regional Conference: Educational Accountants Urged to Strengthen Accountability Systems in Bolgatanga
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GES Regional Conference: Educational Accountants Urged to Strengthen Accountability Systems in Bolgatanga

Educational accountants within the Ghana Education Service (GES) have been called upon to strictly adhere to institutional management systems to ensure transparency and effective service delivery. During a three-day regional conference held in Bolgatanga, the Upper East Regional Capital, officials emphasized that maintaining the integrity of established frameworks is critical for the long-term stability and performance of the education sector. The gathering served as a platform for professional development, focusing on the essential roles accountants play in the administrative health of schools across the region. Addressing the participants, Mr. Jomo Atariboro, the Regional Accountant and Patron of the Educational Accountants Association of Ghana, warned against excessive interference in established institutional structures. He noted that undermining these systems can lead to a breakdown in discipline and negatively impact the welfare of workers. Mr. Atariboro stressed that accountants must remain steadfast in their application of GES regulations to prevent the weakening of the service's management capacity. Supporting this view, the Regional Education Director, Mr. Abdul Razak Korah, highlighted the necessity of enhanced collaboration between accountants and school management to overcome institutional challenges and boost overall performance. The conference was well-received by attendees, who described the refresher training as a vital tool for navigating the complexities of modern educational administration. Madam Akantuesiba Evelyn, representing OLL Girls Senior High School, noted that the sessions provided practical insights into handling auditors and addressing internal institutional hurdles more effectively. However, participants also took the opportunity to advocate for increased financial support for such professional development programs. They pointed out that the rising costs of hosting and attending these workshops necessitate a more robust funding model to ensure that educational staff remain updated on best practices in financial management. As the GES continues to refine its administrative operations, the emphasis on accountability remains a top priority for regional leadership. The conference concluded with a renewed commitment from the educational accountants to uphold the highest professional standards. By fostering a culture of discipline and collaboration, the GES aims to create a more resilient administrative framework that can better support the educational needs of students and the professional requirements of its workforce in the Upper East Region and beyond.

Ministry of Education Extends 2026 SHS Placement Deadline as 95% of Students Secure Schools
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Ministry of Education Extends 2026 SHS Placement Deadline as 95% of Students Secure Schools

Ghana's Ministry of Education has announced a one-week extension for the 2026 Senior High School (SHS) placement exercise to ensure all students secure a spot before the September 18 reopening date. This move aims to provide a final window for students who have not yet secured placements or those seeking changes to their residential status. Resolution centers across the country will remain operational from Monday to Friday to assist families with unresolved issues, facilitating a smoother transition into the new academic year. The Ghana Education Service (GES) has expressed confidence in the current system, reporting that approximately 95% of students seeking admission have already been successfully placed. Daniel Fenyi, Head of Public Relations for the GES, highlighted that 527,000 students were placed automatically through the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS), marking a significant improvement over previous cycles. While high-traffic resolution centers in Accra and the Ashanti Region have seen some challenges, the GES maintains that these are localized issues rather than a nationwide crisis, assuring the public that sufficient school spaces exist for all qualified candidates. Specific data from the Ministry indicates that substantial progress is being made within the remaining pool of applicants. Of the 53,887 students eligible for the current placement phase, 33,726 have successfully secured their schools. Hashmin Mohammed, Press Secretary to the Education Minister, noted that the CSSPS Secretariat has already resolved 4,531 of the 9,948 reported placement issues. The Ministry remains optimistic that the extension will significantly reduce the number of outstanding cases before the doors open on September 18. In the Ashanti Region, the mood at resolution centers has been characterized by heightened anxiety as the reporting deadline nears. To ensure their children do not miss vital orientations and academic activities, many parents have shifted their strategy, expressing a newfound readiness to accept placements in Category C and D schools regardless of their children's aggregates. A primary concern for these families remains the safety and logistics of students placed in distant schools, leading to increased calls for boarding accommodations for those assigned to schools outside their immediate communities. As the final countdown to the academic year begins, the Ministry of Education and the GES continue to urge parents to remain calm and utilize the available resolution resources. With some schools already beginning orientations, the extension serves as a critical buffer to prevent students from falling behind. Officials expect that by the conclusion of this additional week, the vast majority of placement grievances will be settled, allowing the 2026 SHS academic calendar to commence without further interruption.

Prof. Kwasi Opoku-Amankwa — for Director-General, GES
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Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu Advocates Pivot to Foundational Learning and Announces $300 Million Infrastructure Expansion

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has signaled a significant policy shift in Ghana's educational priorities, calling for a strategic reallocation of resources from secondary education toward foundational learning at the basic level. Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile, the Minister emphasized that while the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy remains a significant fixture of the landscape, the previous administration's excessive focus on secondary spending came at the expense of critical early literacy and numeracy skills. According to the Minister, strengthening basic education is essential for children's long-term academic success and requires a more balanced distribution of the national budget. Addressing the financial and logistical challenges of the sector, Mr. Iddrisu noted that the government has already committed GH¢3.4 billion to the national school feeding program. He criticized the immediate past administration for failing to match the expansion of SHS access with adequate infrastructure, which he argued has led to the current difficulties within the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS). To address these inherited gaps, the government under President John Mahama is now pursuing a $300 million expansion program. This initiative involves the construction of 10 new model senior high schools in deprived and urban areas to alleviate the pressure on existing facilities. Complementing the government's infrastructure drive, Professor Kwasi Opoku-Amankwa, the former Director-General of the Ghana Education Service, has proposed converting approximately 160 under-enrolled day senior high schools into boarding institutions. This move is intended to redistribute students and ease the congestion in more popular schools by making lesser-known institutions more attractive to parents and students. Professor Opoku-Amankwa also recommended a 10-year national program to upgrade secondary infrastructure and advised that the double-track academic calendar be retained for the time being. He warned that the immediate removal of the double-track system could leave thousands of students without placements until the infrastructure deficit is fully addressed. As the Mahama administration moves forward with these reforms, the focus remains on creating a sustainable educational ecosystem that values both access and quality. By acknowledging the contributions of past administrations through the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) while addressing current systemic imbalances, the Ministry of Education aims to bridge the gap between basic and secondary learning outcomes. These combined efforts—ranging from foundational investment to large-scale infrastructure upgrades—represent a multi-faceted approach to resolving the structural challenges facing Ghana's schools and ensuring that no student is left behind due to placement or facility constraints.

Participants and facilitators after the workshop
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Ghanaian Communities and Foundations Launch Broad Initiatives to Boost Literacy and Academic Excellence

Across Ghana, a diverse range of stakeholders—including corporate entities, local government officials, and non-profit foundations—are intensifying efforts to enhance educational outcomes and literacy. From the successful performance of juvenile inmates in national examinations to the establishment of community libraries and specialized training workshops, these initiatives reflect a nationwide commitment to empowering the youth through academic excellence and practical skills development. These efforts are particularly focused on bridging resource gaps in underserved areas and fostering a culture of lifelong learning. In a significant achievement for the Ghana Education Service’s prison education program, juvenile inmates at the Senior Correctional Centre in Accra recorded a 100% pass rate in the 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). This academic success is mirrored in the Kpandai District, where District Chief Executive Haruna Abdul-Karim provided essential school supplies to 61 high-performing BECE candidates who scored between six and 12. Notably, 53 of these beneficiaries were girls, underscoring a growing trend of academic potential among young women in the district and providing them with the necessary tools to transition into senior high school despite prevailing economic challenges. Literacy and resource accessibility remain central to these development efforts. In Sekondi-Takoradi, Karpowership organized a reading and storytelling clinic at Essipong STMA Basic School to mark International Literacy Day, donating books and bags to foster a culture of reading among young learners. Similarly, the Paga Youth Movement (PAYOM) recently commended educationist Hajia Halima Sadia Mohammed for her significant donation of books and materials to the Paga Community Library. These contributions are viewed as vital investments in knowledge that will serve as long-term resources for students and residents in the Upper East Region. Beyond traditional academics, organizations are focusing on holistic and future-ready skills. The Ntiamoah Foundation recently conducted a four-day workshop in Akyem Adausena for 64 education stakeholders, focusing on Behavioral, Expressive, Attitudinal, and Mental (BEAM) intelligence to improve learning outcomes. Simultaneously, the HIDAH Humanitarian Foundation concluded a free two-day skills development program in East Legon, led by founder Mujahida Ibrahim Prah. This program, supported by Fatimatu Abubakar, equipped participants with leadership abilities and practical skills, emphasizing that humanitarian service must include long-term empowerment. These coordinated efforts by foundations, media outlets like Ahotor 92.3 FM, and local leaders highlight a collaborative approach to bridging educational gaps. Ahotor FM is currently preparing for its third Academic Showdown in Tema West, a competition designed to promote academic excellence and provide feedback for teachers. By providing both the material resources and the intellectual framework necessary for growth, these stakeholders are ensuring that students—regardless of their background or current circumstances—have the support needed to break cycles of poverty and contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s development.

Salem Kalmoni, President of Baraka Policy Institute, and CEO of Japan Motors and Group, addressing the forum. Picture: ELVIS NII NOI DOWUONA
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Prof. John Azumah and Baraka Policy Institute Propose New National Strategy to Tackle SHS Indiscipline

In a significant move to address the declining standards of behavior in Ghanaian Senior High Schools (SHSs), Prof. John Azumah has called for a comprehensive national policy to manage the impact of social media and digital devices on students. Speaking at the 12th Annual Public Lecture organized by the Baraka Policy Institute (BPI), Prof. Azumah presented findings from a study involving 240 schools, which identified digital distractions and the weak enforcement of school regulations as primary drivers of modern student misconduct. The lecture highlighted a worrying trend where technology often supersedes traditional academic and moral guidance, leading to a rise in behavioral challenges across the country. The study detailed specific manifestations of indiscipline, citing stealing, absenteeism, and persistent disrespect toward authorities as the most significant issues facing today's campuses. Rather than advocating for a total ban on digital devices, which many experts deem impractical in the modern age, Prof. Azumah proposed a national policy focused on teaching responsible usage. This approach emphasizes character formation and digital literacy, ensuring that students can navigate the internet without compromising their academic focus or ethical standards. The findings suggest that the current reactive measures are insufficient to curb the influence of social media on the youth. Institutional reform was also a central theme of the lecture, with various stakeholders calling for the professionalization of school management. The Deputy Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES) underscored the importance of training school governing boards to handle disciplinary matters independently and effectively. Furthermore, there is a recognized need for better training for school chaplains and the fair treatment of religious practices within Ghana’s secular educational framework. These measures are intended to create a more structured and supportive environment that discourages deviant behavior before it requires punitive action. Looking forward, the Ghana Education Service has expressed its readiness to support new interventions aimed at improving student character formation. Hajia Katumi Natogmah Attah of the GES indicated that the service is committed to collaborating with organizations like the Baraka Policy Institute to implement these findings. As the dialogue on educational discipline continues, the focus remains on fostering a balanced environment where technology serves as a tool for advancement rather than a catalyst for indiscipline, ultimately ensuring that SHS graduates are as disciplined as they are academically prepared.

Nearly 50,000 families are stranded by BECE placement crisis; We need critical national conversation on education - Afenyo-Markin writes
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Ghana’s Education Crisis: Stakeholders Demand Reform Amid Placement Chaos and Declining WASSCE Results

Ghana’s education sector is currently grappling with a dual crisis as nearly 55,000 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidates remain unplaced in senior high schools, while recent West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) results reveal that over 183,000 students failed to secure credits in Core Mathematics. Despite the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) reporting a record-high automatic placement rate of 87.32% for the 2026 cohort, the transition to secondary education has been marred by significant distress. Critics, including Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, describe the situation as a national emergency, noting that the credit pass rate in English has also fallen to a four-year low of 62.40%. President John Mahama’s administration now faces mounting pressure to address these systemic failures and stabilize the future of over 200,000 students at risk of being left behind. Education experts have pointed to recent policy shifts as the primary catalyst for the current placement distress. Dr. Kwabena Bempah Tandoh, former Deputy Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES), attributed the confusion to changes in the placement model that allowed candidates to select two Category A schools, creating a mismatch between demand and available vacancies. This view was supported by Professor Kwasi Opoku-Amankwa, who criticized the lack of clear guidelines for student selection. While the government maintains that the new COLDSIS system—introduced under the Mahama administration in 2025—is an improvement, former GES Director-General Charles Aheto Tsegah argued that the computerized system has failed to eliminate favoritism and suggested returning placement authority to headteachers to resolve the recurring annual chaos. The crisis has reignited a fierce debate over the disparity between elite institutions and less-resourced schools. Ben Boakye, Executive Director of the Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP), has urged the government to focus on improving quality across all schools rather than fixating on categorizing them as A, B, or C. To address immediate capacity issues, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has requested GH¢250 million from the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) to expand infrastructure at prominent schools such as Achimota, Wesley Girls’, and PRESEC. However, the Institute for Education Studies (IFEST) warned that focusing investments solely on Category A schools only exacerbates the crisis by making Category C institutions less attractive to parents and students. To ensure a more equitable future, various stakeholders have proposed structural reforms to the educational landscape. The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has recommended building well-resourced model schools in every region to reduce competition for popular urban schools, while the Ghana National Association of Private Schools (GNAPS) has called for the removal of the 15% priority placement quota for public schools, citing it as an unfair burden on private school students. As the government works to resolve the stranded status of nearly 55,000 families, there is a growing consensus on the need for a national dialogue regarding educational funding, teacher motivation, and the creation of clear pathways into TVET and apprenticeship programs for those who did not meet WASSCE credit requirements.

Ghana Education Service to Roll Out EduPack Initiative to Combat Bedbug Infestations in Senior High Schools
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Ghana Education Service to Roll Out EduPack Initiative to Combat Bedbug Infestations in Senior High Schools

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has announced a new initiative titled "EduPack," designed to standardize student belongings and tackle the persistent issue of bedbug infestations within the nation's boarding schools. The program will be implemented across all Senior High Schools (SHS) and Senior High Technical Schools (SHTS). By providing these specialized packages, the GES aims to significantly limit the volume of personal items students bring from home, which are often identified as primary vectors for pests in dormitory environments. The distribution phase of the EduPack project is scheduled to commence on August 1, 2026, and will continue through September 10, 2026. The GES has contracted Prospectus Ghana Ltd. to manage the logistics and delivery of the packages to the various educational institutions. This period is expected to be a critical window for school administrators as they prepare to integrate the new system into their standard registration and boarding protocols ahead of the academic term. To ensure a seamless rollout, the GES has issued formal instructions to all Regional Directors of Education. These officials are tasked with sensitizing school heads and ensuring that each institution is adequately prepared to receive and distribute the packages. The Service emphasized the need for full cooperation between school authorities and the staff of Prospectus Ghana Ltd. during the month-long distribution window to avoid delays or logistical bottlenecks. This move represents a strategic effort by the education service to improve hygiene standards and living conditions for students. Bedbug infestations have long been a challenge for Ghanaian boarding schools, often leading to discomfort and disruptions in student learning. By controlling the materials entering the dormitories through the EduPack system, the GES hopes to create a more sanitary and conducive environment for academic excellence. For further information or clarification, the GES has provided dedicated contact lines for school heads and relevant stakeholders.

Salem Kalmoni, President of Baraka Policy Institute, and CEO of Japan Motors and Group, addressing the forum. Picture: ELVIS NII NOI DOWUONA
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Prof. John Azumah and GES Officials Call for National Policy on Device Usage to Tackle School Indiscipline

The Baraka Policy Institute’s 12th Annual Public Lecture has brought to light the growing concern over student indiscipline in Ghanaian schools, identifying social media and digital devices as primary catalysts for behavioral issues. Presenting findings from a study of 240 schools, Prof. John Azumah emphasized that the current state of discipline is undermined by the pervasive influence of technology and the weak enforcement of school regulations. The report identifies stealing, chronic absenteeism, and a lack of respect for authority as the most significant challenges currently facing the educational system. Prof. Azumah argued that simply banning digital devices is an insufficient solution to the problem. Instead, he advocated for the implementation of a comprehensive national policy designed to teach students responsible digital citizenship and ethical usage. The study suggests that while technology offers educational benefits, its unregulated presence in schools often leads to distractions and moral lapses. To address these systemic issues, the lecture highlighted the need for more effective disciplinary measures and better-trained chaplains who can provide moral guidance and character development within the school environment. Responding to the findings, the Ghana Education Service (GES) underscored the importance of institutional oversight. The Deputy Director-General of GES noted that school boards must be adequately trained to handle disciplinary matters independently and decisively. This sentiment was echoed by Hajia Katumi Natogmah Attah, also representing the GES, who expressed the service’s readiness to support new interventions aimed at character formation. The consensus among stakeholders at the lecture was that a multi-faceted approach—combining policy reform, teacher training, and active parental involvement—is essential to restoring order and fostering a conducive learning environment for Ghanaian students.

Dr. John Jinapor Partners with Academia on Green Energy as Obuasi SecTech Closure and Jirapa Educational Support Take Center Stage
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Dr. John Jinapor Partners with Academia on Green Energy as Obuasi SecTech Closure and Jirapa Educational Support Take Center Stage

Ghana's education and energy sectors are witnessing a pivotal intersection as the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, initiated high-level discussions with Vice Chancellors from various public universities. The engagement, held on September 8, 2026, focused on strengthening the bridge between academia and industry to accelerate the nation's green transition. Minister Jinapor emphasized that research and innovation from the university level are critical pillars for achieving sustainable economic transformation and advancing Ghana's renewable energy goals. This move signals a strategic shift toward utilizing home-grown expertise to solve the country’s long-term energy challenges. While high-level policy discussions continue at the university level, local leaders are taking direct action to support students entering the second cycle of education. In the Jirapa municipality, Member of Parliament Cletus Seidu Dapilah has distributed essential Senior High School (SHS) prospectus items to 1,196 fresh graduates. Drawing from his professional background as a teacher, the MP provided trunks, mattresses, buckets, and learning materials to alleviate the financial burden on families. Local leaders praised the initiative, noting that such support is vital in preventing students from engaging in hazardous activities to fund their education and ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder academic aspirations. However, the start of the academic year is fraught with uncertainty for many in the Ashanti Region as Obuasi Senior High Technical School remains closed following disturbances in August 2026. The Ghana Education Service (GES) shuttered the institution following serious allegations against the headmaster, Abdulai Zakaria, involving claims of inappropriate conduct and a disturbing incident on campus. This closure has left hundreds of newly placed students in limbo, with the official reporting window of September 18 to 20 approaching rapidly. The Adansi concerned citizens group has since petitioned the Ministry of Education for an immediate reopening, arguing that the academic future of innocent students should not be compromised while investigations into the leadership continue. These developments highlight the multi-faceted challenges and opportunities within the Ghanaian education landscape under President John Mahama’s administration. From the visionary integration of green energy research in higher education to the grassroots efforts of MPs to support vulnerable students, the sector remains a primary focus for national development. Nevertheless, the situation at Obuasi SecTech serves as a stark reminder of the administrative and disciplinary hurdles that can disrupt educational access. As the Ministry of Education and the GES navigate these institutional crises, the focus remains on ensuring that academic schedules and student safety are maintained across the country.

Greater Accra Schools Launch SCAWS Waste Initiative as ATU Introduces Trichology HND
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Greater Accra Schools Launch SCAWS Waste Initiative as ATU Introduces Trichology HND

On September 7, 2026, coinciding with the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, six Senior High Schools in the Greater Accra Region officially launched the Schools for Clean Air and Waste Segregation (SCAWS) project. This environmental initiative, led by Impact Footprints Africa (IFA) and supported by the Clean Air Fund in partnership with the Ghana Education Service (GES), seeks to transform waste management within the secondary education sector. The pilot program focuses on introducing robust waste segregation systems, expanding composting efforts, and eliminating the hazardous practice of open waste burning, which frequently plagues school environments. The participating institutions include Achimota School—where the project was inaugurated—alongside Accra Academy, Wesley Grammar School, St. John’s Grammar School, St. Mary’s Secondary School, and Westfield Bridge College. By engaging students, faculty, and school management, the project aims to foster a deep-rooted culture of environmental responsibility. Beyond immediate sanitation improvements, the GES and its partners intend to use the insights gathered from these six schools to develop a replicable model for nationwide implementation, addressing the growing challenge of plastic and organic waste management in Ghana’s educational institutions. In a separate development aimed at advancing technical and vocational training, Accra Technical University (ATU) has partnered with Abrantie College to launch a groundbreaking Higher National Diploma (HND) in Paramedical Trichology. This three-year program is the first of its kind in the country, designed to merge traditional cosmetology with medical trichology to address scalp and hair health. Deputy Minister of Education, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, highlighted the initiative as a significant milestone for national transformation, providing a formal educational pathway for over 8,000 beauty practitioners who previously lacked access to higher tertiary qualifications. These dual developments reflect a broader shift in the Ghanaian education landscape toward practical, specialized training and sustainable campus management. While the SCAWS project prepares students to be environmental stewards, the ATU trichology program professionalizes an essential service sector, positioning Ghana as a regional hub for advanced technical training. Both initiatives highlight the commitment of academic institutions to aligning education with modern market demands and global environmental standards, ensuring that the next generation of graduates is both ecologically conscious and professionally skilled.

Education Ministry cautions against forged school placement slips, refers case to Cyber Security Authority
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Ghana Education Service and Ministry of Education Alert Parents on School Placement Scams and EduPack Payment Disputes

The Ghana Education Service (GES) and the Ministry of Education have issued urgent warnings to parents and students regarding fraudulent activities surrounding the 2026 school placement exercise. As the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) process continues—with over half a million candidates already placed—officials have flagged the circulation of forged placement slips on social media. These altered documents, which feature mismatched barcodes and QR codes, have prompted the Ministry to refer the matter to the Cyber Security Authority for a full investigation. Authorities have emphasized that school placements are entirely free and have urged the public to rely solely on official CSSPS channels to avoid being misled by digital alterations. In addition to the forged documents, the GES has warned against a rising tide of scammers posing as officials from the Ministry, GES, or the Ghana TVET Service. These individuals reportedly claim they can secure or change school placements for a fee. The GES clarified that no legitimate educational body or school official requires payment for placement services. Parents and guardians who encounter such demands are encouraged to report these incidents immediately to the Ghana Police Service or the Office of the Special Prosecutor. This proactive stance is intended to protect families from financial exploitation during the high-pressure transition to Senior High School (SHS). Concurrently, a controversy has emerged regarding the distribution of "EduPack" packages, intended to provide essential items to SHS and Technical School (SHTS) students to mitigate issues like bedbug infestations. While the GES initiated distribution between August 1 and September 10, 2026, the National Council of Parents-Teachers Associations (NCPTA) has cautioned parents against paying GHS 1,617 to EduPack PGL for items such as trunks and mattresses. The NCPTA alleged that the company has misleadingly claimed official GES endorsement for these sales and reminded parents of their right to purchase such items from the open market. The Council has called for punitive measures against the company and any school heads facilitating unauthorized payment demands. Beyond administrative and financial concerns, the MISORNU Safety Centre has called for enhanced road safety measures to protect schoolchildren returning for the 2026/27 academic year. Citing distressing statistics on pedestrian knockdowns, the centre urged local authorities to reduce speed limits near schools and increase police presence in high-risk zones. In a separate development outside of education, the Pilgrims Affairs Office of Ghana (PAOG) has announced the immediate closure of payments for the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage. This move aims to align the number of confirmed pilgrims with the approved quota, preventing the oversubscription and administrative challenges that have impacted previous pilgrimages.

Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak Mohammed Faces Backlash from Teacher Unions Over Security Recruitment Forgery Comments
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Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak Mohammed Faces Backlash from Teacher Unions Over Security Recruitment Forgery Comments

Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak Mohammed has announced a significant crackdown on academic fraud within Ghana’s security agencies, revealing that several recruits have been dismissed for submitting forged West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) results. The discovery was made following a comprehensive verification exercise conducted with the West African Examinations Council (WAEC). Trainees across multiple branches—including the Police, Prisons, Immigration, Fire Service, Narcotics Control Commission, and the Armed Forces—were found to have used doctored documents to secure their positions, prompting their immediate expulsion from training schools. To deter future malpractice, Minister Muntaka announced the creation of a "red list" containing the names of those found guilty of falsifying results. Individuals on this list will be permanently barred from applying to any security service in the country and may face criminal prosecution. During an event at the Asokore Mampong Roman Catholic School, the Minister expressed his shock at the scale of the deceit and urged all prospective applicants to ensure their qualifications are legitimate before seeking enlistment. He emphasized that the integrity of the nation's security apparatus cannot be compromised by fraudulent entry requirements. However, the Minister’s remarks have ignited a fierce controversy with the country's major educational bodies. During his announcement, Muntaka suggested that the issues of forgery likely originated within the education sector rather than the security services. This insinuation prompted an immediate and coordinated response from the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Pre-Tertiary Teachers Association of Ghana (PRETAG). The unions issued a joint statement describing the Minister's comments as offensive, misleading, and derogatory to the teaching profession. The teacher unions have demanded a formal apology and a retraction from the Interior Minister, asserting that teachers will not be used as scapegoats for lapses in the security services' recruitment processes. They highlighted the rigorous qualification and verification standards maintained within the Ghana Education Service (GES) and argued that the Minister’s comments unfairly tarnished the image of educators who contribute significantly to national development. This escalating dispute has shifted public focus from the recruitment scandal itself to a broader debate regarding the integrity of academic certifications and the professional respect accorded to Ghanaian teachers.