The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a new directive revoking all appointments and recruitments of teaching and non-teaching staff who have not yet been placed on the government payroll. This decision was communicated through an official circular dated February 17, 2025, signed by Prof. Ernest Kofi Davis, Acting Director-General of GES.
This directive follows a letter from the Office of the President, referenced SCR/DA/85/85/01/A, dated February 10, 2025, instructing the immediate cancellation of such recruitments.
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Key Details from the GES Circular
- Recruitments Affected
- All teaching and non-teaching staff whose employment has been approved but have not yet been placed on the payroll are affected by this directive.
- This revocation takes immediate effect, meaning all such recruitments are now invalid.
- Reason for the Cancellation
- Although the circular does not explicitly state the reasons behind this decision, it is believed that the move is part of cost-cutting measures by the government to manage the wage bill and financial commitments.
- The involvement of the Office of the President suggests high-level concerns about public sector employment and financial sustainability.
- Strict Adherence Required
- All Regional, District, Municipal, and Metropolitan Directors of Education have been instructed to strictly enforce the directive.
- Further instructions or clarifications will be provided when necessary.
Implications of the Recruitment Cancellation
- Affecting Newly Recruited Teachers and Staff:
Many individuals who had been recruited and were waiting for payroll placement will now have their employment revoked, leaving them in uncertainty. - Possible Protests and Concerns from Education Stakeholders:
Teacher unions, education sector workers, and other stakeholders may challenge the decision, especially if it affects individuals who had already been given official appointments. - Impact on Education Sector Staffing:
If schools were relying on these new recruits to fill vacancies, this directive could lead to staff shortages in some institutions. - Future Recruitment Uncertainty:
It remains unclear whether this is a temporary measure or if the government will halt further recruitments indefinitely. Those affected will be waiting for further communication from GES.
What Happens Next?
GES has assured that further directives will be issued when necessary. It is expected that teacher unions, affected staff, and education stakeholders will seek clarifications or negotiations with the government.
Conclusion
This latest decision by GES is a significant development in Ghana’s education sector, affecting hundreds, if not thousands, of prospective employees. While financial constraints may be a factor, the implications on education service delivery and employment remain critical concerns.
Stakeholders are advised to stay updated as more information emerges regarding the next steps for affected staff and future GES recruitments.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story!
