The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a stern warning to teachers, particularly newly recruited staff, over reports of absenteeism and unauthorized media engagement during official school hours.
In a directive signed by Ag. Deputy Director-General (Q & A), Dr. Munawaru Issahaque, management emphasized that all teachers are expected to respect the Service’s clearly defined administrative structures and uphold professional conduct at all times.
“Management has observed a growing trend where some teachers frequently besiege the Headquarters, form unrecognized splinter groups, or engage the media regarding their concerns. These actions often occur during official school hours, with teachers leaving their duty posts without recourse to their Heads of School, District Directorates, or Regional Directorates,” the statement noted.
Dr. Issahaque stressed that the teaching profession is governed by a Code of Conduct, mandating every staff member to uphold the highest standards of professionalism. He further warned that any teacher found at the GES Headquarters, or participating in media interviews during official hours, would be treated under “Absence from Duty,” with disciplinary procedures strictly applied.
Teachers are required to first raise concerns with their Heads of School before escalating matters through District and Regional Directorates. The GES National Office only engages directly with Regional Directorates and legally recognized teacher unions registered under Ghanaian law.
“Any teacher recorded on video or audio engaging media houses or found at the Headquarters during official school hours will be held accountable, together with the School Head and District Director responsible,” Dr. Issahaque added.
The GES also acknowledged the progress made in clearing inherited backlogs and streamlining administrative processes. However, it reiterated that individual concerns should be addressed through established administrative channels rather than confrontational approaches that disrupt management operations.
Management concluded by reassuring staff that their welfare remains a priority and that legitimate concerns will be addressed through due process and structured engagement.
