The Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially opened applications for the 2025 Study Leave With Pay program!
This is a fantastic opportunity for eligible staff to further their education while still earning a salary. But the official documents can be a bit confusing.
Don't worry, we’ve broken it all down for you. Here’s a simple guide on who can apply, what you can study, and how to submit your application.
Do You Qualify? The Main Rules
Before you get excited, you need to check if you meet the conditions. Here are the most important rules:
Years of Service: You must have worked for GES for a minimum of three (3) years.
Deprived Area Service: You must have served for at least two (2) years in a designated "deprived area" to be considered.
Returning from Secondment: If you just returned from secondment, you need to serve for two (2) years before you can apply.
Re-engaged Staff: If you left the service and were re-appointed or re-engaged, you need to serve for a minimum of five (5) years.
The "Bond": If you are approved, you will be "bonded." This means you must work for GES for a period equal to (the number of years you study + 1 year). For example, a 3-year course means you are bonded for 4 years.
Age and Course Duration Rule: You cannot apply for a course that is longer than the number of years you have left to serve. For example, if you are 55 years old and will retire at 60, you have 5 years left. You can only apply for a course that is 4 years or shorter.
Good Standing: You must have a record of good conduct and performance, and you'll need a recommendation from your immediate supervisor.
What Subjects Can You Study? (This is Key!)
GES has a priority list for subjects. This means it is much easier to get approved for some subjects than others. The budget for study leave is divided into three categories:
Top Priority (60% of Approvals)
This is the largest and most-needed category. It focuses heavily on science, math, and technical teaching.
Subjects include: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, Engineering, Integrated Science, ICT, Special Education, Ghanaian Language, and French.
Medium Priority (30% of Approvals)
This category covers arts, vocational, and technical skills for both teaching and non-teaching roles.
Subjects include: Visual Arts (like sculpture, painting), Vocational Education (like fashion, catering, home economics), and Technical Courses (like welding, plumbing, auto mechanics, electrical engineering).
Other Priority (10% of Approvals)
This is the smallest category, focused on administrative and support roles.
Subjects include: Librarianship, Procurement, Secretariyship, Business Administration, Accounting, and Laboratory Technician.
The takeaway: Your chance of being selected is much higher if you apply to study a subject in the 60% category.
How to Apply (The Steps)
Ready to apply? Follow these steps carefully.
Get the Forms: Pick up an application form from your local Metro, Municipal, or District Education Office.
Complete the Forms: Fill out four (4) copies of the form.
Attach Your Certificates: Make copies of your certificates and have them certified as true copies. Attach these to your application.
Submit Your Application: Your completed application must be submitted through your Regional Director. They will forward it to GES Headquarters.
The Most Important Detail: The Deadline!
You must submit your application so that it reaches the Acting Director for Human Resources at GES Headquarters by Friday, October 31, 2025.
Don't be late! Start the process early to make sure you have enough time.
This is a wonderful chance to grow your career. Check if you qualify, choose your subject wisely, and get your application in on time. Good luck
