The Management of the Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a directive reminding teachers across the country to strictly respect established administrative structures and maintain professional conduct in addressing their concerns.
In a letter dated 9th March 2026 and addressed to All Regional Directors of Education, GES management noted a growing trend where some teachers particularly newly recruited staff bypass official administrative channels to present their concerns directly at the headquarters, form unrecognized groups, or engage the media.
According to the statement, some of these actions occur during official school hours, with teachers reportedly leaving their duty posts without informing their Heads of School, District Directorates, or Regional Directorates. GES emphasized that the Service operates through clearly defined administrative procedures and expects all staff to comply with these structures.
Management stressed that the teaching profession is a noble one governed by a Code of Conduct, which requires every staff member to maintain high standards of professionalism and discipline at all times.
Proper Channels for Addressing Concerns
GES explained that teachers who have concerns or grievances must first report them to their Heads of School. If the issue remains unresolved, it should then be escalated through the District Directorate and subsequently the Regional Directorate where necessary.
The statement clarified that the GES National Office only engages directly with Regional Directorates and legally recognized teacher unions registered under the laws of Ghana.
Warning Against Absence from Duty
The Service also warned that any teacher who leaves their duty post during official school hours and is found at the GES Headquarters or elsewhere, or who participates in media interviews or related activities during that time, will be treated as “Absent from Duty” under the Service’s Code of Conduct.
GES indicated that disciplinary procedures outlined in the Code will be strictly applied to offenders.
Accountability Measures
Regional Directors have therefore been instructed to ensure strict compliance with the directive. They are expected to supervise District Directors and Heads of Schools to monitor teacher attendance and report any cases of absenteeism to management.
GES further noted that any teacher captured on video or audio engaging with media houses or found at the headquarters during school hours will be held accountable. The directive added that Heads of Schools and District Directors responsible for those teachers will also be held liable.
Commitment to Addressing Staff Welfare
While emphasizing discipline, GES management acknowledged the progress made in addressing inherited backlogs and improving administrative processes within the Service.
However, it stressed that outstanding issues affecting individual staff members must be resolved through the appropriate administrative channels rather than confrontational actions directed at the headquarters or the media, which disrupt the work and focus of management.
GES concluded by assuring all staff that their welfare remains a priority, and reiterated its commitment to addressing legitimate concerns through structured engagement and due process.
