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.

Stakeholders demand GES accountability over Obuasi SHTS sexual abuse case
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Stakeholders demand GES accountability over Obuasi SHTS sexual abuse case

Stakeholders and legal experts are calling for the Ghana Education Service (GES) to be held accountable for its delayed response to a sexual abuse scandal at Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS). Despite the service's Code of Conduct allowing for immediate interdiction in such cases, investigation reveals that complaints against the school's headmaster, Zakaria Abdulai, were ignored for over a year. While Abdulai has been suspended following recent public exposure, critics argue that the delay has compromised the safety of students and the integrity of the educational institution.\n\nInvestigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni recently brought the matter to light, detailing how female students who reported assaults as early as March were allegedly pressured into silence. The investigation also suggested that internal GES processes may have victimized teachers who attempted to protect the students. Yaw Opoku Mensah, a spokesperson for former Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, criticized the service for failing to act until a ministerial directive was issued, suggesting that the institutional inertia has undermined public confidence in the GES Director-General.\n\nLegal and moral perspectives have intensified the scrutiny on educational authorities. Marian Darlington of the African Women Lawyers Association stated that adults who were aware of the abuse but failed to intervene share responsibility for the harm caused. She noted that complaints from parents and staff were repeatedly disregarded. Additionally, Lady Rev. Amesika Apprey highlighted a pervasive culture of tolerance that protected the perpetrator at the expense of the victims, calling for a decisive shift in how educational bodies handle such allegations.\n\nThe controversy has ignited a broader discussion on the safety of students across the country. Data identified by JoyNews suggests at least 44 previous cases of teacher-related sexual abuse have lacked adequate resolution, pointing to a systemic issue. Stakeholders are now urging the GES to explain its inaction and provide clear protections for those who report misconduct. This case is seen as a critical test of whether the educational system can enforce its own regulations and prioritize the well-being of students over institutional reputation.

Kwasi Agyei, Controller and Accountant-General
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CAGD pays promotion salary arrears to 56,003 teachers

The Controller and Accountant-General’s Department (CAGD) has disbursed promotion-related salary adjustments and arrears to 56,003 teachers across the Ghana Education Service (GES). This payment follows an agreement reached between the government and teacher unions to resolve industrial grievances that had led to a recent strike. The disbursement ensures that the majority of newly promoted teachers receive their financial entitlements backdated to the start of the year. The payment process was executed in two phases to ensure all verified staff were captured. In September 2026, 6,278 teachers received their adjustments, while the bulk of the group—comprising 49,725 educators—received their payments along with their October salaries on October 15, 2026. This timing allowed the government to meet an October 16 deadline established during negotiations with union representatives and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission. The arrears cover the period starting from January 1, 2026, providing significant financial relief to the affected staff. While approximately 80,000 teachers were promoted in the recent cycle, documentation for 56,633 individuals was successfully processed by the CAGD. However, 630 cases remain pending due to various verification issues. The department is currently awaiting the necessary corrections and updated data from the Ghana Education Service to process payments for these outstanding teachers. Resolving these salary discrepancies was a primary demand of teacher unions, who had argued that delays in reflecting promotions on the payroll were undermining morale within the service.

Zakaria Abdulai faces calls for disqualification from NDC constituency race
politics|

Zakaria Abdulai faces calls for disqualification from NDC constituency race

Prominent voices within and outside the National Democratic Congress (NDC) are calling for the immediate disqualification of Zakaria Abdulai from the party’s upcoming constituency elections. Abdulai, the headmaster of Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS), is currently facing allegations of sexually abusing 16 students. The calls for his removal from the political race follow his interdiction by the Ghana Education Service (GES) and the commencement of a formal police investigation into the matter. Former NDC Member of Parliament Peter Kwakye Ackah has been a leading voice in the demand for action, arguing that the party’s vetting committee must bar Abdulai to protect the NDC’s reputation. Speaking on Adom TV, Ackah emphasized that party membership should never serve as a shield for individuals accused of such heinous crimes. He warned that allowing Abdulai to contest for a constituency leadership position would cause significant damage to the party's image and urged high-ranking officials, including President John Mahama and the Minister of Education, to ensure justice is served. International corporate lawyer Victoria Bright has also joined the call, urging the NDC to formally dissociate itself from the embattled headmaster. Bright characterized Abdulai’s attempt to seek political office while under such serious scrutiny as a breach of public trust. She argued that individuals facing allegations of this nature should not be allowed to gain political influence, stressing that the priority must remain the protection of students and the integrity of the legal process. Bright insisted on full accountability through the courts if the allegations are proven true. The scandal has already had severe repercussions at Obuasi SHTS, where student unrest led to the damage of school property and the temporary closure of the institution. As the police and the GES continue their respective investigations, the NDC is under increasing pressure to demonstrate its commitment to child safety and ethical leadership by preventing Abdulai from participating in the internal party polls.

NUGS demands investigation into Obuasi SHTS headmaster
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NUGS demands investigation into Obuasi SHTS headmaster

The National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) and Africa Education Watch (Eduwatch) are demanding a comprehensive investigation into the headmaster of Obuasi Senior High Technical School, Zakaria Abdulai, following allegations of sexual abuse against at least 16 female students. The student advocacy groups and education experts have expressed grave concern over the safety of students and the apparent failure of administrative systems to protect them. The calls come amid reports that the headmaster’s suspension by the Ghana Education Service (GES) was delayed for several months despite authorities being aware of the complaints. NUGS President Rashid Ibrahim has insisted that if the allegations are confirmed, the headmaster must face full criminal prosecution to serve as a deterrent. Simultaneously, Eduwatch is pushing for a probe into the conduct of GES officials who handled the initial reports. The organisation highlighted that safeguarding procedures were not strictly followed, allowing the alleged abuse to persist even after formal complaints were made. Former Education Ministry Public Relations Officer Kwasi Kwarteng further questioned the delay, pointing to an investigation by journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni which revealed that the ministry had knowledge of the allegations long before taking action. The handling of the case has also drawn criticism from Dr. Kojo Asante, Director of Policy Engagement and Partnerships at CDD-Ghana, who called for the formation of a special taskforce to review protocols for managing sexual abuse allegations in schools. Dr. Asante argued that the current systems are inadequate and called for immediate police involvement in cases of this nature. He emphasized the need for a national audit of sexual misconduct in secondary schools and the establishment of safer reporting mechanisms to ensure that students can come forward without fear of victimization or institutional neglect.

CAGD pays promotion salary arrears to 56,003 teachers
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CAGD pays promotion salary arrears to 56,003 teachers

The Controller and Accountant-General’s Department (CAGD) has fulfilled its commitment to pay promotion-related salary adjustments and arrears to 56,003 teachers within the Ghana Education Service (GES). These payments, which address financial entitlements dating back to January 1, 2026, were processed and disbursed by October 15, 2026. This achievement comes ahead of the October 16 deadline previously agreed upon during negotiations between the government and teacher unions, marking a significant step in resolving recent labor disputes in the education sector. According to the CAGD, the vast majority of the beneficiaries—49,725 teachers—received their arrears alongside their regular October salaries. This follows an earlier round of disbursements in September 2026, when 6,278 teachers received their adjusted payments. While 56,633 teachers were initially slated for the adjustment, 630 cases remain pending due to specific verification issues. The department has indicated that these outstanding cases will be cleared as soon as the necessary documentation is validated. The disbursement follows a period of industrial unrest within the pre-tertiary education sector. Teacher unions launched a nationwide strike on September 25, 2026, to protest delays in the payment of promotion-related benefits. The industrial action, which disrupted academic calendars across the country, was suspended on October 9 following a stakeholder meeting led by the Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu. At that meeting, the government provided firm assurances that the financial benefits associated with the teachers' new ranks would be paid by the October 16 deadline. Despite the successful payment to over 56,000 staff, approximately 23,367 promoted teachers are still waiting for their cases to be processed. The CAGD explained that it is currently waiting for the Ghana Education Service to submit the required documentation for these remaining personnel. The department expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Education, the GES, and various teacher unions for their cooperation in meeting the payroll requirements and pledged to finalize the remaining payments as soon as accurate records are provided.

GES declares October 30 a CPD day for private school teachers
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GES declares October 30 a CPD day for private school teachers

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially designated Friday, October 30, 2026, as a National Continuous Professional Development (CPD) Day specifically for teachers in private schools across the country. This directive ensures that educators in the private sector have a dedicated time for professional growth, similar to their counterparts in the public sector. As part of this arrangement, all students attending private educational institutions will observe a holiday on that date to allow their instructors to participate in the mandatory training sessions without distraction. The professional development sessions will be held under the theme "Mental Health and Psychosocial Well-being of Teachers." The program is designed to equip educators with practical and effective strategies for managing their mental health, fostering resilience, and maintaining their psychological well-being within the demanding educational environment. By focusing on psychosocial support, the GES and private school associations aim to address the often-overlooked emotional and mental burdens carried by teaching staff. The decision to establish this dedicated CPD day follows formal advocacy and requests made to the GES by the two primary umbrella bodies for private education in the country: the Ghana National Council of Private Schools (GNACOPS) and the Ghana National Association of Private Schools (GNAPS). Their collaboration with the GES reflects a unified effort to standardize professional standards and support systems across all categories of schools in Ghana. To ensure the initiative is implemented effectively, the GES has instructed its Regional Directors to supervise the proper coordination of the training across all districts. These officials are responsible for ensuring that the training modules are delivered as planned and that participation is maximized. This initiative is expected to set a precedent for regular, scheduled professional development specifically tailored to the needs of the private education sector.

PRETAG validates 51,000 promoted teachers for salary arrears
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PRETAG validates 51,000 promoted teachers for salary arrears

The Pre-Tertiary Teachers Association of Ghana (PRETAG) has announced the successful validation of records for at least 51,000 promoted teachers. This critical step is expected to pave the way for the payment of outstanding promotion arrears and the adjustment of salaries to reflect new professional grades. The verification process followed a specific administrative timeline set by educational authorities to ensure all eligible staff are captured in the upcoming payment cycle. The validation exercise was conducted in response to a formal directive from the Ghana Education Service (GES). Under this directive, teachers who had recently been promoted were required to verify their application status and update their records by a deadline of October 15. This process is essential for synchronizing the GES database with the Controller and Accountant General’s Department to ensure that salary adjustments are accurate and reach the intended recipients without technical delays. Kingsley Ayimadu, the National Communication Director for PRETAG, expressed confidence in the government’s commitment to resolving the arrears issue. He noted that the union has been monitoring the process closely to ensure that the 51,000 members identified receive their rightful compensation. Ayimadu clarified that the arrears are intended to be bundled with the regular October salary payments, providing a much-needed financial boost to teachers who have been waiting for their new grades to be reflected in their bank accounts. The completion of this validation exercise marks a significant milestone for the teaching workforce. By addressing these promotion arrears, the Ghana Education Service aims to boost morale within the pre-tertiary education sector. Teachers across the country are now looking forward to the release of the October payroll, which will serve as the final confirmation of the government's promise to honor its financial obligations to promoted staff.

GES committee recommends reposting of Obuasi SHTS headmaster in relation to August riot; fresh allegation of sexual misconduct under investigations
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Abdulai Zakaria suspended over sexual abuse claims at Obuasi SHTS

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has interdicted the headmaster of Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS), Abdulai Zakaria, following a series of events involving a student riot and serious allegations of sexual misconduct. The decision comes after a GES committee reviewed a report concerning a riot on August 5, 2026, which led to the arrest of six students for damaging school property. While the committee initially recommended Zakaria’s reposting in relation to the unrest, he has since been suspended pending the outcome of a separate investigation into the alleged sexual abuse of female students. The allegations were brought to public attention through an investigative documentary by journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni titled "Inside the Dreaded Headmaster’s Bungalow." The report claims that Zakaria, who also serves as the Juabeng Constituency Secretary for the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), used his position to exploit students. Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has directed both the GES and the police to conduct a thorough inquiry into the claims. Despite his suspension, reports indicate that Zakaria is seeking election as an NDC constituency chairman, leading to public concerns that political influence may have delayed the investigation. Parliament’s Committee on Human Rights has called for swift justice, stating that the situation violates Ghana’s Children’s Act and international conventions on the rights of the child. The committee emphasized the need for higher ethical standards in the education sector and commended the Ministry of Education's intervention as more students come forward. Meanwhile, the Association of Women Lawyers, Ghana (AWLA) has used the case to advocate for the establishment of a National Sexual Offenders Register and mandatory background checks for all school personnel to prevent similar occurrences. Institutional data highlights a troubling trend in the education sector; a review by JoyNews Research tracked 44 cases of sexual abuse involving educators since 2015, with school heads implicated in 40% of recent incidents. In response to the Obuasi case, Dr. Issahaque Munawaru of the GES stated that any staff found guilty of such misconduct would face immediate dismissal. The GES committee's report included 27 recommendations aimed at improving school safety, enhancing reporting mechanisms for harassment, and ensuring stricter penalties for misconduct.

GES directs applicants to check 2026 promotion status on October 15
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GES directs applicants to check 2026 promotion status on October 15

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially instructed all eligible applicants for the 2026 promotion exercise to verify their application status starting Thursday, October 15, 2026. This directive follows the conclusion of the preliminary application phase and represents a critical milestone for thousands of educators across the country seeking career progression within the national education framework. The status check is a mandatory step for those who submitted applications to move to higher ranks within the service. In a formal communication dated October 14, 2026, the GES management directed all Regional Directors of Education to ensure the timely dissemination of this information to candidates in their respective jurisdictions. The service has designated a specific promotion portal for this exercise, providing a dedicated link for applicants to access their records. Regional Directors have been tasked with utilizing all available administrative channels to ensure that no eligible teacher or staff member is left uninformed about the verification window. This verification process is intended to ensure that all submitted data is accurate and that applicants meet the necessary criteria for the upcoming promotion assessments. By opening the portal on October 15, the GES aims to provide a transparent platform for candidates to confirm their eligibility and address any potential discrepancies early in the process. The service's leadership emphasized the importance of this step in maintaining the integrity of the promotion exercise and expressed appreciation for the cooperation of regional heads in coordinating these administrative tasks. As the 2026 promotion cycle moves forward, educators are encouraged to monitor the official portal closely for further updates regarding examination dates and interview schedules. This exercise remains a key component of the government's commitment to improving professional standards and teacher welfare within the Ghana Education Service. Successful applicants who eventually pass the promotion hurdles will see adjustments in their professional standing and responsibilities across the country's pre-tertiary education system.

Fairuza Abdul-Rashid Safian (middle), Executive Director, CAMFED Ghana; Habiba Kotonah (left), GES Director, La Dadekotopon; Emelia Ayipio Asamoah (2nd from left), Head, Work Force Development, MasterCard Foundation, and some guests and students of the Labone SHS. Picture: BENEDICT OBUOBI
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Ghana Education Service declares zero tolerance for child marriage

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has reaffirmed its commitment to ending child marriage and ensuring that girls remain in school to complete their education. Speaking at a forum organized to commemorate the International Day of the Girl Child at Burma Camp, the La Dadekotopon Municipal Director of Education, Habiba Kotonah, announced a zero-tolerance stance against the practice. She emphasized that child marriage significantly hinders the future prospects of young girls and called for a unified approach to protect their fundamental rights. Madam Kotonah urged parents, educators, and community leaders to collaborate in creating a protective environment for the girl child. She specifically highlighted the importance of mentorship, encouraging female teachers to serve as role models for their students. According to the Director, providing girls with the necessary guidance and support is essential for overcoming obstacles such as harassment and discrimination, which often lead to school dropouts and the premature termination of their academic journeys. The event was supported by CAMFED Ghana, whose Executive Director, Fairuza Abdul-Rashid Safian, underscored the moral and social imperatives of the initiative. She argued that investing in the rights of girls should not be viewed as an act of charity but as a necessary commitment to equality and justice. By ensuring safe learning environments and fostering collective community effort, the GES and its partners aim to empower girls to achieve their professional and personal dreams without the threat of early forced unions.

Daniel Boateng Mintah's family demands probe into death at Abomosu STEM SHS
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Daniel Boateng Mintah's family demands probe into death at Abomosu STEM SHS

The family of 14-year-old Daniel Boateng Mintah is calling for a comprehensive police investigation and a post-mortem following his death just 12 days after he enrolled at Abomosu STEM Senior High School. Daniel, who reportedly had no known prior health conditions, passed away on September 30, 2026, under circumstances the family describes as mysterious and poorly explained by school authorities. The family has formally appealed to the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) and the Minister of Education to intervene and ensure transparency in determining the cause of his death. According to the family, Daniel fell ill with what was initially suspected to be malaria shortly after starting his first year at the school. However, they allege that school officials provided conflicting accounts regarding his condition and the treatment he received. Concerns were further heightened when the family was reportedly not updated on his deteriorating health for several hours, only to be informed later that he had passed away. Upon visiting the mortuary, the family noted discrepancies in the state of the body and the information provided by both the school and the hospital where he was treated. A significant point of contention involves the discovery of psychiatric medication among Daniel's personal belongings—medication the parents insist they did not provide and which was not previously prescribed for him. This discovery has led the family to question the nature of the medical care administered while he was in the school's custody. His parents described Daniel as an ambitious student who was eager to study computer science, while his former teachers characterized him as academically gifted and respectful. Seeking justice and clarity, the family is requesting that the student's body be transferred to the Police Hospital in Accra for an independent forensic examination. They emphasize that a thorough inquiry is necessary not only to provide closure for their loss but also to address potential safety gaps and prevent similar tragedies in the future. As of now, the family is waiting for a formal response from the Ghana Education Service and the police regarding the protocols followed during Daniel's brief illness.

The image shows the ornate yellow and black entrance gate of Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS) in Ghana. The architecture features a central security booth topped with a Ghanaian traditional stool motif, with paved driveways and landscaped plant beds in the foreground.
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Zakaria Abdulai interdicted over alleged sexual abuse of 14 students

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has interdicted the headmaster of Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS), Zakaria Abdulai, following serious allegations of sexual misconduct. The interdiction, which was directed by the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, on October 13, 2026, follows a media report detailing the alleged abuse of 14 female students at the institution over the past year. The Ministry has emphasized that the suspension is necessary to facilitate a thorough and transparent investigation into the claims. The allegations were brought to public attention by investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni during an interview on JoyNews. The report, which highlighted a pattern of misconduct involving multiple students, triggered immediate unrest among the student body. The resulting disturbances led to damage to school property, prompting authorities to temporarily close the campus to ensure the safety of students and staff and to prevent further destruction. In addition to the administrative suspension by the GES, Minister Iddrisu has formally requested a police investigation into the headmaster's conduct. A complaint has already been lodged with the police in Obuasi to pursue criminal charges if the evidence warrants it. The government has stressed that the legal process will be handled with the necessary urgency to ensure justice for the affected students and their families. The GES has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining high professional standards and a safe learning environment. While the school remains closed for the time being, officials have indicated that the interdiction is a preliminary step while a formal disciplinary committee reviews the findings. The service has assured the public that it maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding any behavior that compromises the physical and emotional welfare of learners under its supervision.

Alhassan Abdul Fataw Jofa donates 1,500 mono desks to Yendi schools
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Alhassan Abdul Fataw Jofa donates 1,500 mono desks to Yendi schools

Alhassan Abdul Fataw Jofa, the Member of Parliament for Yendi, has presented 1,500 mono desks to the Yendi Municipal Directorate of the Ghana Education Service (GES). This significant donation is aimed at mitigating the acute shortage of furniture within the local school system, which has hindered effective teaching and learning for many years. Currently, many students in the municipality are forced to sit on the floor or share desks, a situation that the MP described as unacceptable for a modern educational environment. During a ceremony marking the handover, Mr. Jofa emphasized his dedication to improving the educational standards in his constituency. He stated that the provision of these desks is a crucial step in ensuring that every student has a comfortable and conducive space to study, which is fundamental to academic success. The MP highlighted that his focus remains on addressing basic infrastructure needs, which are essential to the success of national educational goals. He further pledged to continue seeking resources to support schools across the Yendi area to ensure no child is left behind due to poor facilities. The Deputy Director of Education for the Yendi municipality, Akolgo, received the furniture on behalf of the GES. He expressed profound gratitude for the MP's intervention, noting that the shortage of furniture has been a persistent challenge that has stressed both pupils and teachers in the district. Akolgo assured the MP and the community that the desks would be distributed fairly, prioritizing those schools with the most urgent needs. He also stressed the importance of maintenance, pledging that the GES would work with school heads to ensure the desks are well-kept for future generations of students. The 1,500 mono desks are expected to be deployed across various basic and second-cycle institutions immediately. This initiative is seen as part of a larger effort by the MP to bolster human capital development in Yendi through targeted investments in the education sector. Local residents and educators have welcomed the move, noting that it will reduce the physical strain on pupils and allow them to focus better on their academic pursuits, ultimately improving the quality of education in the municipality.

Haruna Iddrisu suspends Zakaria Abdulai over sexual misconduct claims
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Haruna Iddrisu suspends Zakaria Abdulai over sexual misconduct claims

The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has directed the Ghana Education Service (GES) to immediately suspend Zakaria Abdulai, the headmaster of Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS). The directive follows grave allegations of sexual misconduct involving a female student at the institution. The Minister’s intervention comes in response to investigative reports produced by journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni and JoyNews, which brought the alleged incident to public attention and prompted an urgent review by the Ministry. In a formal communication to the Director-General of the GES, the Minister emphasized that the allegations are being treated with the utmost seriousness. Beyond the administrative suspension of the headmaster, the Ministry of Education has formally requested the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service to launch a comprehensive investigation into the matter. This dual approach aims to ensure that both institutional disciplinary protocols and criminal justice procedures are followed to resolve the case. The Ministry has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy regarding any form of misconduct within the country's educational institutions. Officials underscored that teachers and school administrators hold a fundamental duty of care to protect the students entrusted to them. By taking this swift action, the Ministry aims to maintain the integrity of the educational system and ensure a safe learning environment for all students. Further steps regarding the headmaster’s tenure will be determined by the findings of the CID and the internal GES inquiry.

Alhassan Abdul Fataw Jofa donates 1,500 mono desks to Yendi schools
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Alhassan Abdul Fataw Jofa donates 1,500 mono desks to Yendi schools

Alhassan Abdul Fataw Jofa, the Member of Parliament for the Yendi constituency, has presented 1,500 mono desks to the Ghana Education Service (GES) to address critical furniture deficits within the municipality. The donation is intended to alleviate the plight of students who have been forced to study under difficult conditions, including sharing limited seating or sitting on the floor during lessons. This intervention aims to restore dignity to the classroom environment and ensure that every child has a comfortable place to sit while learning. Speaking during the presentation ceremony, Mr. Jofa emphasized his unwavering dedication to improving educational standards in Yendi. He noted that the lack of adequate furniture has long been a significant barrier to effective learning and expressed his commitment to providing further support to educational institutions in the area. The desks are expected to provide immediate relief to several basic schools across the municipality that have been identified as having the greatest infrastructure needs. Receiving the furniture on behalf of the GES, Akolgo, the Deputy Director of Education, expressed profound gratitude for the MP's timely intervention. He acknowledged that the shortage of desks has been a persistent challenge for the directorate, affecting academic performance and student morale. Akolgo assured the MP and the community that the desks would be distributed fairly across the municipality and pledged that schools would implement strict maintenance protocols to ensure the longevity of the newly donated furniture. This initiative follows broader efforts to bridge the infrastructure gap in the education sector within the Northern Region. By addressing the furniture shortage, the donation aims to create a more conducive environment for teaching and learning, which is expected to improve student attendance and overall engagement. The Ghana Education Service is set to begin the distribution of the desks to the beneficiary schools immediately to ensure that students can benefit from the improved seating arrangements as soon as possible.

Haruna Iddrisu suspends Zakaria Abdulai over alleged sexual misconduct
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Haruna Iddrisu suspends Zakaria Abdulai over alleged sexual misconduct

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has directed the Ghana Education Service (GES) to immediately suspend Zakaria Abdulai, the headmaster of Obuasi Senior High Technical School, following allegations of sexual misconduct involving a female student. The Minister has instructed the GES Director-General to implement the suspension to allow for a thorough investigation into the matter without interference. The Ministry emphasized that the gravity of the allegations necessitates an immediate administrative response to ensure the safety and well-being of the students at the institution. The decision to suspend the headmaster was prompted by media reports and an investigative report by journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni and JoyNews. Upon reviewing the details brought to light by these investigations, the Ministry of Education deemed it necessary to take swift action. Haruna Iddrisu stated that the conduct described in the reports is entirely unacceptable and violates the trust placed in educational leaders. The Ministry is working closely with the relevant bodies to ensure all facts are gathered while the administrative suspension remains in force. In addition to the internal measures taken by the Ghana Education Service, the Minister has formally requested the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service to launch its own investigation into the incident. This request aims to determine any criminal liability and ensure that justice is served according to the law. The parallel investigations by both the GES and the police will be conducted concurrently to provide a comprehensive resolution to the case and address the concerns of the affected student and her family. The Ministry of Education has used this development to reaffirm its zero-tolerance policy on all forms of sexual misconduct and abuse within educational institutions. It reminded all teachers and school administrators of their professional and ethical duty to safeguard children and maintain a secure learning environment. The Ministry further noted that it will continue to support investigations that protect the integrity of the educational sector and will not hesitate to take maximum disciplinary action against anyone found guilty of such misconduct.

Education Minister assures teachers of salary adjustments by October 16
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Haruna Iddrisu pledges teacher salary adjustments by October 16

The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has assured public pre-tertiary teachers that the government will pay outstanding promotion-related salary adjustments and arrears by October 16, 2026. This commitment follows the suspension of a two-week nationwide strike by the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Pre-tertiary Teachers Association of Ghana (PRETAG). The industrial action, which began on September 25, was halted on October 9 after successful negotiations between the government and union leadership. During a monitoring visit to the Osu Presbyterian Cluster of Schools, Mr. Iddrisu emphasized that administrative processes are currently underway to validate records and ensure that all eligible teachers who received permanent promotions are paid. He acknowledged the financial constraints facing the government but reiterated a firm commitment to honoring the agreement. Beyond salary adjustments, the Minister noted that work is progressing to identify beneficiaries for a proposed 20% deprived-area allowance, which requires further validation to ensure accurate distribution to teachers in eligible regions. Following the strike's suspension, classrooms across the country officially reopened on October 12. In the Greater Accra Region, reporting indicated a high level of attendance, with teachers seen supervising assemblies and preparing lesson plans. However, the situation was more varied in other parts of the country; for instance, some primary schools in the Sunyani Municipality recorded low student attendance despite teachers being present. In contrast, Junior High Schools in the same area reported full classrooms, leading headteachers to urge parents to send their children back to school immediately to recover lost instructional time. The National Council of Parent-Teacher Associations (NC-PTAs) and the Council of State have both expressed relief at the resumption of classes, with the NC-PTAs specifically thanking President John Mahama for his intervention in the dispute. Both bodies have called for sustained dialogue and proactive engagement between the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC), the Ghana Education Service (GES), and the teacher unions. Stakeholders stressed that maintaining good faith and meeting the October 16 deadline is essential for ensuring long-term stability within the academic calendar.

Ghana Education Service empowers 500 girls in Techiman South
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Ghana Education Service empowers 500 girls in Techiman South

The Ghana Education Service (GES) Girls Child Unit has empowered more than 500 girls from various schools in Techiman to mark the International Day of the Girl Child. The event brought together students from both basic and senior high schools to discuss critical issues affecting their development and educational prospects. Focused on the theme "End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights," the program aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and confidence to pursue their academic goals despite societal challenges. During the celebration, officials and advocates addressed the persistent hurdles faced by young women in the region, particularly the prevalence of child marriage and its impact on school completion rates. Speakers highlighted the necessity of educational advocacy as a tool for liberation, urging the girls to prioritize their studies as a means of securing their futures. The GES Girls Child Unit emphasized that investing in the rights of girls is not only a moral imperative but a strategic necessity for national development. The Member of Parliament for Techiman South, along with other key stakeholders, used the platform to call for more stringent measures against child marriage and cases of defilement. The discussion underscored systemic failures in protecting girls and the urgent need for comprehensive support structures for those affected by gender-based violence. By strengthening community-led efforts and legal enforcement, the organizers hope to create a safer environment where every girl can achieve her full potential and transition into leadership roles within her community.

Ghana International School hosts 10th TIME Educators’ Conference
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Ghana International School hosts 10th TIME Educators’ Conference

Ghana International School (GIS) has convened approximately 1,000 educators for the 10th edition of the TIME Educators’ Conference, focusing on the critical need for teachers to pursue personal professional development. The event served as a platform to discuss modern teaching techniques and the necessity of adapting to a rapidly changing global education landscape. Participants were encouraged to take ownership of their career growth to ensure that instructional standards remain high in Ghanaian classrooms. The conference brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including 200 educators from the Ghana Education Service (GES). This collaboration between private and public sector practitioners highlights a unified effort to elevate teaching standards across the country. Under the theme of transforming education through individual teacher development, the sessions provided practical insights into innovative pedagogical strategies and addressed the evolving needs of the modern student. Eugene Boateng, the Head of Standards at GIS, emphasized that the education sector is undergoing significant shifts that require constant vigilance from practitioners. He argued that for teachers to remain relevant, they must move beyond traditional methods and embrace ongoing educational opportunities. Boateng urged the gathered professionals to be proactive in updating their skills, noting that stagnant practices are no longer sufficient to meet the challenges of 21st-century learning. The successful conclusion of the 10th TIME Educators’ Conference reinforces the importance of peer-to-peer learning and institutional support for teacher training. By fostering an environment of continuous improvement, GIS aims to equip educators with the necessary tools to inspire and lead their students effectively. The event ended with a collective call for sustained engagement in professional development to ensure that Ghana’s education system remains competitive and robust.

Pre-tertiary teacher unions suspend nationwide strike
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Pre-tertiary teacher unions suspend nationwide strike

Three major pre-tertiary teacher unions—the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Pre-Tertiary Teachers’ Association of Ghana (PRETAG)—have suspended their nationwide industrial action. Following successful negotiations with the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC), the unions have directed their members to return to classrooms on Monday, October 12. The strike, which had been in effect for two weeks, was launched to protest unresolved grievances regarding unpaid promotion arrears and the implementation of several key teacher allowances. As part of the consensus reached with government representatives, a specific payment schedule has been established to address the unions' financial demands. The government has committed to paying promotion-related arrears for approximately 51,000 teachers by October 16. Furthermore, authorities have pledged to implement a deprived area allowance by January 2027, a long-standing demand intended to improve teacher retention in remote and under-served regions. GNAT President Prosper Tachie emphasized that the suspension of the strike is tied to these commitments, and the union is now advocating for the finalization of explicit implementation procedures for these conditions of service to ensure future agreements are fully honored. Despite the return to work, the unions have made it clear that the suspension is conditional on the government’s adherence to the agreed timelines. NAGRAT President Jacob Anaba warned that industrial action could resume if the January 2027 commitment for the deprived area allowance is not fulfilled. He emphasized that educators in remote areas face significant hardships in accessing basic services, making the allowance essential for their continued service. The government's treatment of teacher unions was also criticized by Professor Titus Beyuo, the MP for Lambussie, who urged more proactive engagement with labor concerns to avoid recurring strikes. The Ghana Education Service (GES) and the Ministry of Education are now focused on recovering lost instructional time to safeguard the academic calendar. Deputy Education Minister Dr. Clement Apaak stated that the GES will develop a comprehensive plan in collaboration with teachers to make up for the two weeks of teaching missed during the strike. Both government officials and union leaders expressed confidence that the lost hours can be recovered without causing major disruption to the academic schedule, ensuring that students remain on track for their examinations and educational milestones.

Kwasi Agyei targets October 15 for 52,000 teacher promotion payments
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Kwasi Agyei targets October 15 for 52,000 teacher promotion payments

The Controller and Accountant-General, Kwasi Agyei, has announced that approximately 52,000 teachers whose promotions have been delayed are scheduled to receive their salary adjustments and arrears by October 15, 2026. This development follows the completion of form processing by the Ghana Education Service (GES), which has now moved into the final validation stage to ensure accurate payments for all affected staff. The initiative is part of a concerted effort to resolve outstanding financial obligations within the education sector. According to Mr. Agyei, the department is working under a strict timeline to clear the promotion backlog. A cutoff date of October 16 has been established; teachers whose records are successfully verified before this deadline will receive their arrears through a supplementary payment this month. For those whose records are cleared after the October 16 cutoff, the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department (CAGD) has confirmed that these payments will be included in the regular November payroll to ensure no eligible staff member is overlooked. The verification process is essential for confirming the new professional grades of the teachers and calculating the exact amounts of arrears due to each individual. Mr. Agyei emphasized that the Ghana Education Service had submitted all required documentation as of October 8, facilitating the current push to finalize the payroll adjustments. This administrative effort aims to ensure that every eligible teacher is correctly captured in the system, thereby preventing further discrepancies in future salary disbursements. This intervention follows a direct instruction from the Minister of Education to prioritize the resolution of outstanding teacher payments. The delay in processing promotion-related arrears has been a primary grievance for teacher unions, contributing to recent strike actions and labor unrest across the country. By establishing a clear timeline for these payments, the government seeks to address these long-standing concerns and restore industrial harmony within the teaching workforce.

Bono East Education Directorate invites basic school teachers for SHS reposting
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Bono East Education Directorate invites basic school teachers for SHS reposting

The Bono East Regional Education Directorate has officially opened applications for professional basic school teachers who wish to be reposted to Senior High Schools (SHS) and Senior High Technical Schools (SHTS) within the region. This initiative, announced on September 29, is designed to address staffing needs and fill critical subject-teaching vacancies across various secondary institutions in Bono East. The directorate aims to ensure that all schools in the region are adequately staffed with qualified personnel to maintain educational standards. To be eligible for the reposting, interested applicants must demonstrate professional competence and possess the relevant academic qualifications necessary for teaching at the SHS/SHTS level. The directorate is seeking teachers with specific subject-matter knowledge and practical experience that aligns with the requirements of the senior high school curriculum. This process allows the Ghana Education Service (GES) to leverage existing talent within the basic education sector to strengthen the teaching force in secondary schools where specific subject expertise is required. Qualified teachers are required to submit their expressions of interest directly to the Regional Director. The application package must include a formal letter of interest along with certified copies of all relevant professional and academic qualifications. The deadline for the submission of these applications has been set for October 21. This window provides time for interested staff to compile their documentation and seek any necessary internal clearances before the final submission to the regional headquarters. This move by the Bono East Regional Education Directorate reflects a strategic effort to optimize human resource distribution within the regional education system. By transitioning qualified personnel from basic to senior high levels, the directorate aims to enhance the quality of instruction in SHS and SHTS institutions while providing career growth opportunities for educators. The outcome of this reposting exercise is expected to contribute to more balanced staffing levels and improved academic outcomes across the region's senior high schools.

CAGD verifies 52,000 teacher promotions for October payment
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CAGD verifies 52,000 teacher promotions for October payment

The Controller and Accountant-General’s Department (CAGD) has received promotion input forms for 52,000 teachers, initiating the final stage of record verification for salary adjustments. Following a directive from the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, the department is working to resolve outstanding promotion and arrears issues that have long affected the teaching workforce. Official records are expected to be fully validated by next week, with the resulting payments scheduled for disbursement around October 15 or 16. Controller and Accountant-General Kwasi Agyei confirmed that the Ghana Education Service (GES) has successfully completed the submission of all required data. These input forms are now being processed to ensure that each teacher's rank and salary grade are accurately updated within the national payroll system. This verification period is a necessary administrative step to prevent errors and ensure that the correct arrears are paid out to every eligible staff member. The move comes as a vital intervention to address concerns raised by various teacher associations. Delays in upgrading teachers to their new ranks and the subsequent withholding of salary increments have been major points of contention, leading to previous industrial action. By fast-tracking these 52,000 promotions, the government aims to demonstrate its commitment to teacher welfare and fulfill its obligations to public sector workers. Once the validation is concluded, the payment of these adjustments is expected to provide financial relief to the affected educators and help stabilize the academic calendar. Education authorities have noted that addressing these administrative bottlenecks is key to maintaining a motivated workforce. The CAGD has assured stakeholders that it remains on track to meet the mid-October payment deadline set by the ministry.

Innovative Teachers Union Issues Legal Ultimatum to GNAT Over 2026 Bargaining Exclusion
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Innovative Teachers Union Issues Legal Ultimatum to GNAT Over 2026 Bargaining Exclusion

A significant labor dispute has erupted within Ghana’s education sector as the Innovative Teachers Union (ITU) threatens to take legal action against the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT). At the heart of the conflict is the exclusion of the ITU from critical negotiations regarding the 2026 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) for teaching staff within the Ghana Education Service (GES). The ITU asserts that its sidelining from these discussions is not only unfair but a violation of existing labor frameworks, prompting the union to issue a formal demand letter to halt the process until their representation is secured. The Innovative Teachers Union bases its legal challenge on the Labour Regulations of 2007, which stipulate a requirement for lead unions to consult with other relevant unions during the bargaining process. According to the ITU, GNAT has a history of consulting various teacher unions while deliberately excluding them from the table. The union argues that constitutional fairness must be upheld, ensuring that all recognized bodies representing teachers have a voice in determining the terms and conditions of service that will govern their members' professional lives for the coming years. In response to these allegations, GNAT maintains a firm stance, contending that it remains the primary holder of the collective bargaining certificate for the sector. GNAT representatives have suggested that the participation of minority unions in such negotiations is discretionary rather than a mandatory legal requirement. This disagreement highlights a long-standing tension between established legacy associations and newer, independent unions over who truly possesses the mandate to speak for Ghana’s educators during high-stakes financial and administrative negotiations with the government. As the 2026 CBA negotiations move forward, the ITU has called upon relevant national authorities and labor regulators to intervene and mediate the impasse. The outcome of this dispute could set a vital precedent for labor relations in the public sector, potentially reshaping how collective bargaining is conducted when multiple unions represent the same workforce. If a resolution is not reached, the looming threat of litigation could stall the finalization of the agreement, leaving thousands of teachers in a state of uncertainty regarding their future benefits and working conditions.

Ghanaian Teacher Unions Maintain Nationwide Strike as Negotiations with Fair Wages Commission Reach Deadlock
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Ghanaian Teacher Unions Maintain Nationwide Strike as Negotiations with Fair Wages Commission Reach Deadlock

Pre-tertiary education in Ghana faces a significant crisis as the nationwide strike by the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Pre-Tertiary Teachers Association of Ghana (PRETAG) enters a critical deadlock. Despite appeals from the Ghana Education Service (GES) and a government commitment to settle outstanding promotion arrears by October 30, union leaders maintain that financial assurances alone are insufficient to end the industrial action. The standoff has paralyzed public basic schools across the country, particularly in the Ashanti Region, as teachers demand a comprehensive resolution to long-standing grievances regarding service conditions and professional allowances. The crux of the current stalemate lies in a disagreement over a 20% professional allowance and the structure of new negotiations. Dr. George Smith-Graham, CEO of the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC), stated that talks have stalled because unions are seeking a new allowance outside the current transitional framework. According to Dr. Smith-Graham, as the country prepares for the establishment of the Independent Public Emoluments Commission (IPEC), unions should focus on enhancing existing allowances rather than introducing new ones. However, PRETAG President King Ali Awudu and NAGRAT President Jacob Anaba have countered that these demands are not new, citing commitments made as far back as 2009. In the Ashanti Region, union members have insisted on receiving verifiable "bank alerts" before considering a return to the classroom. Government officials, including Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu and Deputy Minister Dr. Clement Apaak, have urged teachers to return to work, citing the detrimental impact on students' academic progress. Dr. Apaak acknowledged that administrative delays in implementing new salary scales for approximately 80,000 teachers were due to data transfer issues between the GES and the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department. To mitigate future bottlenecks, the FWSC has proposed a regional approach to processing teacher promotions. Meanwhile, the National Council of Parents Teachers Association (PTA) has signaled its support for the teachers’ concerns, with Secretary Raphael Kofi Gapson warning that parents may join the protests if the October 30 deadline for settling arrears is missed. External observers, such as the Institute for Education Studies (IFEST), have criticized the government for failing to act early, noting that the strike was avoidable had discussions begun before the collective agreement expired. IFEST Executive Director Dr. Peter Anti argued that the strike remains the unions' most effective tool, as it has already forced the validation of over 51,000 promotion claims. As negotiations are set to resume, the Mahama administration faces increasing pressure to balance fiscal constraints with the urgent need to stabilize the education sector. The resolution of this dispute now hinges on whether the government can provide concrete, broader action on service conditions beyond the immediate payment of promotion arrears.

Prof. Ernest Kofi Davis — Director-General, Ghana Education Service
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Ghanaian Teacher Unions Stand Firm as Strike Deadlock Continues Over Allowances and Promotion Arrears

The nationwide strike by pre-tertiary teacher unions in Ghana remains in force as negotiations between the government and labor leadership reached a stalemate this week. Members of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Pre-Tertiary Teachers Association of Ghana (PRETAG) have withdrawn their services, leading to the closure of public basic schools across the country. While the government, through Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu, has committed to settling outstanding promotion arrears by October 30, union leaders insist that clearing these debts is insufficient to end the industrial action. They are demanding a comprehensive resolution to broader concerns, including a 20% professional allowance and the finalization of a new collective agreement. At the center of the deadlock is a disagreement with the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) regarding allowances. Dr. George Smith-Graham, CEO of the FWSC, reported that negotiations stalled after unions introduced demands for new allowances that fall outside the current transitional framework as the country moves toward establishing the Independent Public Emoluments Commission (IPEC). While the FWSC has urged unions to focus on enhancing existing allowances, labor leaders like NAGRAT President Jacob Anaba and PRETAG President King Ali Awudu argue that the government has failed to act on commitments dating back as far as 2009. In the Ashanti Region, union representatives have taken a harder line, declaring they will only return to the classroom once they receive verifiable bank alerts confirming the settlement of their payments. The strike has drawn significant reactions from education stakeholders and parents. The National Council of Parents Teachers Association (PTA) has expressed solidarity with the teachers, with Secretary Raphael Kofi Gapson warning that parents may join street protests if the government misses the October 30 deadline. Dr. Peter Anti of the Institute for Education Studies (IFEST) criticized the government for failing to engage the unions before the previous collective agreement expired, suggesting the strike was avoidable. Conversely, labor consultant Austin Gamey cautioned that negotiating while maintaining a strike is detrimental to industrial relations, likening the situation to holding the government in "handcuffs." Government officials, including Deputy Education Minister Dr. Clement Apaak and Ghana Education Service (GES) Director-General Prof. Ernest Kofi Davis, continue to appeal for a return to the classroom. They have attributed delays in salary adjustments for nearly 80,000 promoted teachers to complex data transfer issues between the GES and the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department. As a gesture of future commitment, the government has announced plans for a 20% salary incentive for teachers in rural and underserved areas starting in 2026. For now, however, the academic calendar remains disrupted, and further talks between the FWSC and union leaders are scheduled for later this week in an attempt to break the impasse.

Spokesperson for Former Minister Adutwum Urges Restoration of Existing GES Digital Platforms
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Spokesperson for Former Minister Adutwum Urges Restoration of Existing GES Digital Platforms

Yaw Opoku Mensah, the spokesperson for former Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, has strongly countered recent assertions that the Ghana Education Service (GES) remains heavily reliant on manual administrative processes. In a detailed statement, Mensah argued that the groundwork for a digital GES was laid years ago, specifically under the previous administration’s tenure. He urged current education officials to focus on restoring and optimizing existing digital systems rather than attempting to introduce entirely new ones, which he suggests might be redundant or disruptive to established workflows. The push for digital transformation within the GES reportedly began in earnest in 2017, aimed at drastically reducing the bureaucratic burden of paperwork and enhancing overall institutional efficiency. Key among the platforms highlighted by Mensah are the Ghana Education Service Management Information System (GESMIS) and the Self-Placement Recruitment Platform. These tools were designed to streamline teacher recruitment, data management, and placement procedures, providing a digital backbone that the spokesperson claims was already operational and effective before the recent transition in governance. Mensah’s remarks come as a response to perceived narratives that the education sector is starting from scratch regarding digitalization. He emphasized that the focus should be on continuity in digital transformation, noting that several effective platforms have been discontinued or underutilized. The statement calls on the current Ministry of Education to conduct a thorough review of previous reforms to identify why these established systems were sidelined and to address any technical or administrative gaps that led to their dormancy. The debate highlights a broader challenge in Ghana’s public sector: the sustainability of technological initiatives across different political administrations. As the GES continues to navigate its modernization goals, the spokesperson’s call serves as a reminder of the investment already made in digital infrastructure. For stakeholders in the education sector, the priority remains the delivery of efficient services, which Mensah argues is best achieved by refining the proven tools of the past seven years rather than reinventing the wheel.

Upper East Stakeholders and Children Believe Demand Urgent Investment in Early Childhood Education
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Upper East Stakeholders and Children Believe Demand Urgent Investment in Early Childhood Education

Stakeholders in the Upper East Region are sounding an alarm over the state of early childhood education (ECE), calling for a significant surge in investment to secure a robust foundation for children's lifelong learning. Organized by the Upper East Regional Coordinating Council with support from the non-governmental organization (NGO) Children Believe, the recent gathering brought together educational experts, social service representatives, and traditional leaders to address critical gaps in the region’s foundational education system. The consensus among participants was that the early years are pivotal, yet they remain one of the most under-resourced sectors within the national education framework. The discourse centered on several systemic hurdles that currently impede effective early childhood care and development. Key among these concerns is the acute shortage of trained teachers specifically assigned to kindergarten levels, which has led to suboptimal learning outcomes. Participants noted that planning for early childhood care often suffers from institutional oversight, resulting in learning environments that are frequently inadequate or poorly maintained. Furthermore, the meeting highlighted persistent funding challenges and the recurring issue of delayed enrollment, where many children start kindergarten later than the recommended age, putting them at a developmental disadvantage compared to their peers. The Regional Director of the Department of Children emphasized that without dedicated planning and resource allocation, the goal of providing a solid educational start remains elusive. To combat these deficiencies, stakeholders urged the Ghana Education Service and relevant authorities to prioritize the deployment of qualified teachers to early childhood centers rather than focusing primarily on higher levels of basic education. There was also a strong consensus on the need for collaborative resource mobilization, encouraging both state and non-state actors to pool funds and expertise to sustain development activities for the long term. As the meeting concluded, traditional leaders and NGO representatives underscored that the responsibility for early childhood development extends beyond government mandates to include active community-level involvement. By fostering a multi-sectoral approach, the Upper East Region aims to create a more resilient educational infrastructure that guarantees every child access to quality early learning. The participants agreed that addressing these foundational gaps is not just an educational necessity but a strategic socio-economic investment in the future human capital of the region.

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu Vows Teacher Arrears Payment by October 30 Amidst Ongoing Nationwide Strike
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Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu Vows Teacher Arrears Payment by October 30 Amidst Ongoing Nationwide Strike

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has announced that the government is committed to settling outstanding arrears for over 51,000 promoted teachers by October 30, 2026. This pledge comes as the Ghana Education Service (GES) works under a strict deadline of 4:00 p.m. on Monday, October 5, to submit the necessary promotion data to the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department (CAGD). The Minister described it as "inexcusable" if the government fails to honor these payments, emphasizing that the Ministry of Finance will be directed to pursue supplementary payments once the data reconciliation is complete. This move is a critical attempt to resolve the nationwide strike launched on September 25 by pre-tertiary teacher unions, including the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT). The Director-General of the GES, Professor Ernest Kofi Davis, has highlighted that the service is prioritizing the submission of promotion details to address delays in salary grade placements—one of the primary grievances fueling the industrial action. Professor Davis expressed a strong preference for electronic processing to modernize record handling and reduce the administrative burden of the current paper-based system. However, he clarified that the final decision on whether to use electronic methods for payroll processing lies with the CAGD. Education Minister Iddrisu corroborated this need for modernization, criticizing the inefficiency of paper forms and calling for a robust IT infrastructure to streamline teacher promotions and salary adjustments. While the government has tabled new proposals—including updated salaries for promoted staff, a 20% allowance for teachers in deprived areas, and negotiations on expired service conditions—the strike remains in effect. NAGRAT has issued warnings to teachers who might attempt to undermine the strike, urging them to stay out of classrooms until their demands are fully met. Union leaders, including Madam Edith Adjua Sambo, have noted that frustration has peaked following years of stalled negotiations dating back to 2009. Despite these tensions, Professor Davis has urged teachers to return to work to protect the academic calendar while discussions continue. The impasse reached a temporary standstill following a high-level meeting on October 6, which ended without a formal resolution to call off the strike. Union leaders are currently consulting with their members to review the government’s latest offers and are expected to provide a formal response on Monday. The outcome of these deliberations, combined with the successful processing of the October 5 promotion data, will determine whether normal academic activities can resume in public schools across the country.

Alhassan Mumuni Advocates for Urgent Establishment of Senior High School in Salaga North
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Alhassan Mumuni Advocates for Urgent Establishment of Senior High School in Salaga North

Alhassan Mumuni, the Member of Parliament for Salaga North, is making a forceful appeal to the government and educational authorities to establish a Senior High School (SHS) in his constituency. The MP highlighted a critical gap in the local education system, where numerous Junior High School (JHS) graduates are currently unable to access second-cycle education due to the absence of a nearby facility. This deficit has left many young people in the district at a disadvantage, often ending their academic journeys prematurely or facing significant hurdles to travel elsewhere for schooling. Central to the MP's argument is the status of a specific infrastructure project: a Community Day Senior High School E-block. According to Mumuni, this project was originally initiated during President John Mahama’s previous term in office (2012-2017) but has since been abandoned. The sight of the uncompleted structure serves as a point of frustration for the community, which has seen several academic years pass without the promised local enrollment. Mumuni pointed to this project as a pressing issue that requires urgent intervention to revitalize the district’s educational prospects. In the absence of a completed government facility, the Salaga North community has taken matters into its own hands. Local leaders and residents have launched an initiative to establish a school using existing infrastructure within the area. Mumuni has voiced strong support for this grassroots effort, urging the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service (GES) to officially recognize and approve the plan. By integrating this community-led school into the formal education system, the MP believes the district can bridge the current accessibility gap and provide immediate relief to students and their families. The push for an SHS in Salaga North is part of a broader demand for equitable distribution of educational resources across Ghana. Mumuni emphasized that providing local access to second-cycle education is essential for the socio-economic development of the district. As the community continues to advocate for the repurposing of existing buildings, the focus remains on the government to either complete the dormant E-block or provide the necessary regulatory backing for the local alternative. Resolving this educational crisis is seen as a vital step in ensuring that the youth of Salaga North are not left behind in the national pursuit of universal access to secondary education.