The Ghana Education Service (GES) has suspended all Senior High School (SHS) graduation ceremonies in the Greater Accra Region and directed schools to immediately stop preparations for such events.
The directive requires affected schools to withdraw all public notices, announcements, and communications related to graduation ceremonies. According to the GES, the move is part of efforts to promote discipline, fairness, and responsible practices within schools.
Schools Ordered to Comply Immediately
The Greater Accra Regional Directorate of the Ghana Education Service issued the directive to senior high schools, senior high technical schools, and STEM institutions across the region.
Schools have been instructed to inform students, parents, teachers, and other stakeholders about the suspension.
The directive also requires school authorities to submit reports confirming compliance with the order.
GES officials said the decision is aimed at ensuring that school activities remain focused on education while protecting students and reducing financial pressure on families.
Ministry Reviews SHS Graduation Practices
The latest directive follows a broader decision by the Ministry of Education to suspend SHS graduation ceremonies nationwide.
The ministry said the suspension would allow authorities to review guidelines governing school graduation events.
The review comes amid concerns about excessive displays associated with some ceremonies, including expensive gifts, luxury vehicles, and other celebrations that officials believe create financial burdens for parents and guardians.
Focus on Equity and Student Welfare
Education authorities have stressed that school programmes should promote inclusion and avoid creating situations where students feel pressured because of differences in family income.
The Ghana Education Service has encouraged schools to prioritize activities that support academic achievement, student development, and responsible school culture.
Officials have also warned that schools that fail to follow the directive may face administrative action.
The suspension forms part of ongoing efforts by the Ghana Education Service and the Ministry of Education to improve oversight of school activities nationwide.
Authorities say future decisions on SHS graduation ceremonies will be guided by revised policies designed to balance celebration with discipline and affordability.
The GES has urged school administrators, parents, and students to cooperate as the review process continues.
