The Ghana Education Service (GES) has confirmed that Senior High Schools (SHSs) will reopen on January 3, 2025, despite concerns from the Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) regarding unresolved financial issues.

In a press release dated January 2, 2025, the GES assured that the 2024/25 academic calendar would proceed as scheduled. Cassandra Twum Ampofo, Head of the Public Relations Unit at GES, emphasized that “SHS students are expected to report back to school on January 3, 2025, while primary and Junior High Schools will reopen on January 8, 2025.”

Although the reopening date remains unchanged, Ms. Twum Ampofo acknowledged the concerns raised by CHASS and stated that the GES is actively collaborating with the Ministry of Education to address these issues.

The GES called on all stakeholders, including students, parents, and teachers, to take note of the reopening dates and ensure they make the required preparations.

This confirmation follows an appeal made by CHASS on December 31, 2024, in which they requested a postponement of the reopening date for Senior High Schools.

CHASS raised significant concerns regarding outstanding financial obligations, particularly unpaid debts for food supplies and operational expenses, which they argue could affect the smooth running of schools.

The organization highlighted that the financial challenges could hinder schools’ ability to adequately prepare for the reopening and provide essential services to students. Despite these concerns, the Ghana Education Service (GES) has maintained the January 3, 2025 reopening date, stating that the 2024/25 academic calendar will proceed as scheduled.