The Ghana Education Service (GES) has clarified a recent internal circular issued to education authorities across the country, assuring teachers that the directive does not restrict their constitutional rights or prevent them from expressing concerns about issues affecting the profession. The clarification follows public debate and concerns raised by some teachers and stakeholders regarding the interpretation of the circular and its implications for teacher activism and advocacy.
In a statement issued on March 13, 2026, GES explained that the circular, titled “Management Reinforces Respect for Administrative Structures and Professional Conduct,” was intended to strengthen adherence to existing administrative procedures within the education system rather than limit the rights of teachers.
Background to the circular
The directive was initially circulated to all Regional Directors of Education as part of efforts by GES management to ensure that issues raised within the education service are addressed through established administrative channels.
According to the Service, concerns raised at the school level should first be directed to the Head of School. If the issue remains unresolved, it should then be escalated to the District Directorate, followed by the Regional Directorate, and finally to the national headquarters where necessary.
GES explained that this hierarchical structure has guided the administration of the education system for decades and helps ensure that matters are handled effectively and with the appropriate context at each level of the organization.
The Service emphasized that the circular was issued primarily to reinforce professionalism and respect for the administrative framework that governs the operations of the education sector.
Assurance on teachers’ constitutional rights
Following criticism and speculation that the circular might prevent teachers from participating in demonstrations or expressing grievances publicly, GES moved to reassure staff that their constitutional rights remain fully protected.
In its clarification, the Service stated that teachers, like all citizens, have the right to lawful expression, including engaging with their unions and participating in legitimate advocacy activities.
Management stressed that the directive does not prohibit teachers from raising concerns about issues such as salaries, working conditions, or welfare. Instead, it encourages educators to channel their grievances through the proper administrative and institutional structures to ensure that they are addressed appropriately.
The Service noted that the circular should not be interpreted as an attempt to suppress dissent or silence teachers.
Professional conduct and classroom responsibilities
While reiterating teachers’ rights, GES also reminded staff of their professional responsibilities, particularly during official school hours.
Earlier directives had cautioned teachers against abandoning their classrooms to participate in demonstrations, media engagements, or other activities during teaching hours without authorization. Such actions, according to the Service, could be classified as absence from duty under the teachers’ Code of Conduct.
GES maintains that the directive is necessary to prevent disruptions to teaching and learning in schools and to ensure that students continue to receive quality education.
The Service also instructed school heads and district education authorities to monitor compliance with professional standards and report cases of absenteeism or misconduct where necessary.
Engagement with teacher unions
The clarification comes at a time when several teacher unions have been advocating for the resolution of various issues affecting educators, including salary arrears, recruitment processes, and working conditions.
GES acknowledged these concerns and reassured staff and unions that the relevant authorities are working to address them. Management indicated that updates regarding outstanding matters would be communicated to stakeholders in due course.
The Service also encouraged teachers to maintain constructive engagement with management through recognized union structures and established communication channels.
Call for calm and professionalism
In its concluding remarks, the Ghana Education Service called on teachers and other stakeholders within the education sector to remain calm and maintain professionalism while ongoing issues are being addressed.
GES emphasized that constructive dialogue and adherence to administrative procedures remain essential for maintaining stability within the education system.
By clarifying the purpose of the circular, the Service hopes to dispel misconceptions and reaffirm its commitment to protecting the rights of teachers while ensuring that the education system operates efficiently.
The development highlights the delicate balance between safeguarding teachers’ constitutional rights and maintaining discipline and professionalism within Ghana’s public education sector.