The Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially announced the closure of all public pre-tertiary schools across the country on March 28, 2025, to allow teachers to fully participate in the National Continuous Professional Development (CPD) Day. This directive, issued by GES Management, underscores the commitment to enhancing teacher capacity building and improving the quality of education in Ghana.

What is CPD Day and Why is it Important?

Continuous Professional Development (CPD) is a structured training program designed to help teachers upgrade their skills, stay updated with modern teaching techniques, and improve their effectiveness in the classroom. The CPD initiative aligns with the broader educational reforms aimed at raising teaching standards and ensuring better learning outcomes for students.

By dedicating a full day to professional development, the GES ensures that teachers across the country receive uniform training on new educational policies, pedagogical strategies, and classroom management techniques.

Key Directives from GES

1. All public pre-tertiary schools (basic and secondary) will be closed on March 28, 2025 – meaning students will not be in school on that day.

2. All teachers are expected to attend the CPD training – attendance is mandatory as part of their professional growth.

3. Parents and guardians should take note – since schools will not be in session, arrangements should be made for children who may need supervision at home.

4. School administrators should ensure compliance – heads of schools are responsible for facilitating teachers’ full participation in the training.

Impact of the School Closure: What You Need to Know

For Teachers:

The CPD training will provide valuable insights into new teaching methodologies, assessment techniques, and student engagement strategies.

Participation in CPD is often linked to career progression and promotions, making it essential for professional growth.

Teachers will have the opportunity to network and share experiences with colleagues from different schools.

For Students and Parents:

Since schools will not be in session, parents need to make arrangements for their children at home.

For students, especially those preparing for BECE and WASSCE, this day could be used for self-study and revision.

For School Administrators:

School heads must ensure all teachers fully participate in the CPD session.

They should communicate this directive to students and parents to avoid confusion.

Possible Concerns and Questions

While the CPD initiative is beneficial, some concerns may arise:

1. How will GES ensure all teachers attend and actively participate?

2. Will there be mechanisms to evaluate the effectiveness of the training?

3. How will the school closure affect academic activities, especially for final-year students?

Conclusion: A Step Towards Quality Education

The closure of schools for CPD Day may cause temporary disruption, but its long-term benefits outweigh the inconvenience. By investing in teacher training, GES aims to improve the overall quality of education in Ghana, ensuring students receive the best instruction possible.

All stakeholders—teachers, students, parents, and school administrators—are encouraged to take note and make necessary arrangements.

For further updates, visit the official GES website (www.ges.gov.gh) or follow them on social media (@gheduservice).