Further Studies in GES: Do I Need To Work For 4 Years Before Getting Approval To Pursue Further Studies In GES?

Here’s a guide on how to go on further studies as an employee of Ghana Education Service (GES). The publication made it clear on the number of years a teacher has to work with GES before going for further studies. Also, the mode of studies, Study Leave With Pay, salary, and switch to teach in the Senior High School (SHS).

READ ALSO: Who qualifies to teach in SHS?: SHS teaching qualifications

Do I Need To Work For Four Years Before Before Getting Approval To Pursue Further Studies In The Ghana Education Service (GES)?

The short answer is YES, it’s true! But there are exceptions (Those serving in deprived villages serve two years) .

GES requires newly trained teachers to work for at least four years before pursuing further studies—whether it’s a first degree, second degree, or even a master’s program. Regardless of the mode, one must follow this rule and apply.

Why should GES approve before leaving for further studies?

Why? Because GES wants to regulate how teachers leave the classroom to the detriment of the learners. GES needs to prepare to accommodate the pay rise that comes with acquisition of higher certification by staff. And lastly, GES believes that field experience is needed for professional growth.

For instance, if you graduate from a College of Education with a Diploma and you ignore this process to pursue a degree immediately, you may face challenges later. If you bypass the four-year requirement, your new qualification cannot be used to upgrade your salary scale.

That’s because GES mandates teachers to notify their District offices and meet the service period before furthering their education.

What should I do if I meet the four-year or two years requirement and want to pursue further studies?

Now, if you meet the four-year or two years requirement and want to pursue further studies, here’s what you must do:

1. Write to Your District Office: Notify them formally about your intention to further your education, specifying the program, mode (Regular, sandwich or distance), and institution.

2. Get Approval: Wait for the district to forward your application through regional to headquarters. Get approval letter from Director General before  proceeding. Without this, your certificate may not be accepted for upgrading your rank or salary.

What happens if I pursue a program without informing GES?

Some teachers wonder, ‘What happens if I pursue a program without informing GES?’ Well, you can still earn your certificate, but it won’t help with:

1. Salary Upgrades: GES won’t recognize the certificate for promotions.You need to attach you approval letter to the application when applying for upgrade. Without it, you application will be rejected.

2. Career Progression: Your rank in the service remains unchanged, even with a new qualification that’s not recognised. If you pass any other means, you might suffer some consequences latter.

If your goal is personal growth or opportunities outside GES, that’s fine. But within GES, following the proper channels is critical.

Who qualifies to go on Study Leave With Pay?

Let’s talk about study leave with pay. This benefit is reserved for specific categories:

Teachers with diplomas and Below can apply for study leave with pay to pursue a degree.

If you already have a degree (like the new crop of graduates from College of Education) and already on the rank of Principal Superintendent, you’re not eligible for study leave with pay. You can, however, study at your own expense through sandwich or distance programs. But Ghana we dey, things a happening.

Does the 4 years requirement also apply to teachers aspiring to switch and teach in Senior High Schools?

READ ALSO: Who qualifies to teach in SHS?: SHS teaching qualifications

For those aspiring to teach in senior high schools and need additional first degree or pursue master’s degrees, the four-year rule still applies. GES expects you to have classroom experience, follow due process before climbing the academic ladder.

If you have any further questions or insights, drop them in the comments section.

CREDIT: INFORMED TEACHERS NETWORK