The Ghana Education Service (GES) has clarified that its recent directive reinforcing administrative procedures within the Service does not restrict teachers from expressing their concerns or exercising their constitutional rights.
In a statement responding to public discussions surrounding an internal circular titled “Management Reinforces Respect for Administrative Structures and Professional Conduct,” referenced GES/DD-G/Q&A/26/134, the Service explained that the directive was intended only to remind staff of the existing administrative processes that guide its operations.
According to GES, the circular, which was addressed to all Regional Directors of Education, has been widely discussed in the public space, prompting management to offer further clarification.
The Service emphasised that teachers, like all citizens, have the right to lawful expression, including engaging their unions and participating in legitimate advocacy activities.
However, it noted that the directive was meant to re-emphasise the long-standing administrative structure within the Service, which has governed how concerns are addressed within the institution for decades.
GES explained that under the established process, issues that arise at the school level are first handled by the Head of School. If unresolved, such matters are escalated to the District Directorate, then to the Regional Directorate, and eventually to the headquarters.
According to management, the structure ensures that concerns are addressed efficiently, fairly, and with the appropriate context at each level of the education system.
The Service also assured teachers, unions and other stakeholders that efforts are ongoing to resolve matters relating to salary arrears, recruitment and other outstanding issues affecting staff.
It added that updates on these matters would be communicated in the coming days.
GES further called for calm and professionalism among staff across the country, while encouraging constructive engagement through the appropriate administrative channels.
