Ghana Education Service Announces Closure of Public Pre-Tertiary Schools for National CPD Day

 

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially announced the closure of all public pre-tertiary schools on March 28, 2025, to allow teachers to fully participate in the National Continuous Professional Development (CPD) Day. This directive, issued by the management of GES, aims to enhance the skills and knowledge of teachers through a structured training program.

As education plays a pivotal role in national development, the GES recognizes the need for continuous professional development for teachers to improve the quality of education in Ghana. This article explores the significance of CPD Day, its impact on teachers and students, and why professional development is crucial in modern education.

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Understanding Continuous Professional Development (CPD) in Education

Continuous Professional Development (CPD) refers to ongoing training and skill enhancement programs designed to improve teachers’ competencies and efficiency in the classroom. In Ghana, CPD is a key component of the Teacher Professionalism Policy, ensuring that educators remain updated on new teaching methodologies, curriculum changes, and educational innovations.

The National CPD Day, set for March 28, 2025, is part of the government’s broader effort to strengthen the educational system by equipping teachers with advanced teaching techniques, leadership skills, and updated subject knowledge.

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Why Public Pre-Tertiary Schools Will Be Closed on CPD Day

GES has directed the closure of public pre-tertiary schools for the following reasons:

• Full Participation of Teachers: To ensure that all teachers actively engage in the CPD program without the distraction of regular classroom duties.

• Improvement of Teaching Standards: Training sessions will focus on modern teaching strategies, digital education, student engagement techniques, and assessment methods.

• Alignment with Educational Reforms: As Ghana undergoes curriculum updates and policy changes, teachers need to be well-equipped to implement them effectively.

• Encouraging Professional Growth: CPD helps teachers grow in their careers, making them better educators for their students.

The closure of schools on this day is a short-term inconvenience for students and parents, but the long-term benefits will contribute to higher educational standards in Ghana.

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Key Benefits of CPD for Teachers and Education in Ghana

CPD is an essential investment in teacher development, benefiting not just educators but also students and the entire education system. Below are some of the major benefits of CPD:

1. Enhancing Teaching Skills and Knowledge

• CPD provides teachers with updated knowledge in their subjects.

• It introduces new teaching methodologies and classroom management techniques.

• Teachers learn how to handle diverse learning needs, including students with disabilities.

2. Increasing Student Academic Performance

• When teachers upgrade their skills, they can deliver lessons more effectively.

• Improved teaching methods lead to better student understanding and retention.

• Students benefit from innovative and engaging learning approaches.

3. Preparing Teachers for Technological Integration

• The world is evolving, and so is education.

• CPD programs often include training in digital tools, online learning platforms, and AI-powered teaching methods.

• Teachers learn to integrate technology into lessons to make learning more interactive and accessible.

4. Strengthening Curriculum Delivery

• The Ghanaian education system is undergoing reforms with new curricula and assessment styles.

• CPD ensures that teachers understand the latest syllabus requirements.

• It helps teachers align their teaching with national and global education standards.

5. Boosting Teacher Confidence and Motivation

• Professional growth leads to higher job satisfaction.

• Confident teachers are more engaging and inspiring in the classroom.

• CPD provides career advancement opportunities such as promotions and leadership roles.

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Stakeholders’ Reactions to the CPD Day Announcement

The decision to close schools for CPD Day has received mixed reactions from various stakeholders, including teachers, students, parents, and education analysts.

1. Teachers’ Perspective

Many teachers have welcomed the initiative, stating that CPD is necessary for their growth and development. Some teachers believe that regular training helps them keep up with modern educational trends.

“As a teacher, I see CPD as a great opportunity to upgrade my skills. Education is always evolving, and we need to stay updated to provide quality learning experiences for our students.” – Madam Akosua, JHS Teacher

2. Parents’ Concerns

Some parents have expressed concerns about the impact of school closure on students. Many worry that the break will disrupt academic progress, especially for students preparing for BECE and WASSCE.

“I understand that teachers need training, but I hope the GES has plans to make up for lost instructional time. Students preparing for exams need all the learning hours they can get.” – Mr. Boateng, Parent

3. Students’ Reactions

While some students are excited about the day off from school, others recognize that teachers' training benefits them in the long run.

“It’s good that our teachers are learning new things, but I hope they will use the knowledge to help us pass our exams.” – Kwame, SHS Student

4. Education Experts’ Opinions

Education analysts have largely supported the initiative, emphasizing the need for continuous training in the teaching profession. Some have recommended that future CPD programs be held during vacations to prevent school disruptions.

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GES’ Commitment to Enhancing Teacher Development

The Ghana Education Service has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering teachers through training and professional development. This CPD Day is part of broader teacher development initiatives, which include:

✔ Regular in-service training programs.
✔ Workshops on digital education and e-learning.
✔ Mentorship programs for newly trained teachers.
✔ Specialized training for teachers handling students with disabilities.

The government has also assured teachers of more resources and incentives to support their professional development.

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Conclusion

The announcement of National CPD Day and the closure of public pre-tertiary schools is a strategic move aimed at enhancing teaching quality in Ghana. While some stakeholders are concerned about the disruption to students’ education, the long-term benefits of improved teaching skills and educational standards outweigh the short-term inconveniences.

Education remains the foundation of national development, and investing in teachers' continuous training ensures a brighter future for students and Ghana as a whole.

🔗 For official updates on CPD programs and teacher training initiatives, visit: ges.gov.gh/cpd.