By Enoch 
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has firmly dismissed calls to postpone the reopening of Senior High Schools (SHSs), maintaining that the 2024/25 academic calendar remains unchanged. Despite concerns raised by the Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) over unresolved financial issues, the GES has reiterated that SHS students are expected to report to school on January 3, 2025.
Financial Concerns Raised by CHASS
CHASS has been vocal about the financial challenges facing second-cycle institutions, warning that the government’s failure to meet its financial obligations could disrupt the reopening of schools. The association has urged the Education Ministry to postpone the reopening date until outstanding debts for food and operational expenses are cleared. In recent months, several schools have reported shortages of essential supplies, which has heightened anxiety among parents, students, and educational staff. Despite these pressing issues, the Ghana Education Service has stood its ground, emphasizing that the academic calendar will proceed as planned.
GES Reaffirms Reopening Dates
In a press statement, Cassandra Twum Ampofo, Head of the Public Relations Unit at GES, reiterated that SHS students should report back to school on January 3, 2025, while primary and Junior High Schools (JHS) will reopen on January 8, 2025. Twum Ampofo assured that the GES is actively engaging with the Ministry of Education to address the concerns raised by CHASS. She highlighted ongoing efforts to release funds to schools to alleviate some of the financial burdens. “We are aware of the concerns and are working tirelessly to ensure that these issues are resolved promptly,” she said.
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Impact on Students and Parents
The decision to maintain the reopening date has sparked mixed reactions among students, parents, and staff. While some are relieved that the academic calendar remains intact, others are worried about the potential impact of unresolved financial issues on the smooth running of schools. Parents have been advised to make necessary arrangements to ensure their children return to school on time. For many families, the cost of transportation and purchasing school supplies amidst financial uncertainties has been a significant concern. Some parents are seeking assurances that their children will receive the necessary resources and support once they return to school.
GES’s Commitment to Education
The GES has reiterated its commitment to improving the education sector, including the introduction of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, which aims to provide free education to all SHS students in public schools. The service has also reverted to the pre-COVID-19 academic calendar, which allows for better planning and provides enough contact hours with students. Twum Ampofo stressed that the GES is dedicated to ensuring that every child has access to quality education, despite the financial challenges that may arise. “Our priority is to deliver quality education to our students. We are committed to overcoming these challenges and providing a conducive learning environment,” she added.
Measures to Support Schools
To further support schools, the GES has outlined several measures, including the provision of learning materials and financial support to schools in need. They are also working closely with regional and district education offices to monitor the situation and provide timely interventions where necessary. The GES has urged school heads to remain vigilant and report any issues promptly to ensure they are addressed. Additionally, the government has announced plans to review the funding model for SHSs to prevent future financial crises.
As the debate continues, the GES remains resolute in its decision to maintain the reopening dates for SHSs. The service has called on all stakeholders to adhere to the announced schedule and make the necessary preparations for a successful start to the new academic year. The coming days will be crucial in determining how the financial concerns raised by CHASS will be addressed and whether the reopening of schools will proceed smoothly. The GES’s steadfast commitment to maintaining the academic calendar reflects its dedication to the education of Ghanaian children and the overall progress of the nation’s educational system.
