GES has no mandate to ban private school graduations – Ghanaian private schools set the record straight
The Ghana National Council of Private Schools (GNACOPS) has clarified that the Ghana Education Service (GES) directive suspending graduation ceremonies in pre-tertiary schools does not automatically apply to privately owned schools.
The clarification follows concerns among private school owners, parents, and students after GES announced restrictions on graduation ceremonies, prom nights, leavers’ celebrations, and related activities in schools.
According to GNACOPS, its review of the directive and the legal framework governing education administration shows that the instruction was mainly directed at schools operating under the direct management and supervision of GES.
The Council explained that privately owned pre-tertiary institutions operate under a different administrative arrangement and therefore the directive does not expressly prohibit them from organising graduation or transition ceremonies.
Private schools defend graduation ceremonies
GNACOPS stated that private schools have the right to organise graduation programmes as part of their institutional traditions, provided such events are conducted responsibly and comply with existing educational regulations.
The Council, however, advised schools to avoid excessive spending, extravagant displays, and activities that could create unnecessary pressure on parents and learners.
“Graduation ceremonies should remain focused on celebrating academic achievement, discipline, and student progress,” the Council emphasised.
Background to the GES directive
The controversy started after GES moved to stop what it described as excessive post-examination celebrations in schools. The directive targeted activities such as lavish graduation ceremonies and displays of wealth on school premises.
GES argued that some celebrations had shifted attention away from academic achievement and created social inequalities among students, especially where expensive gifts and public displays of wealth were involved.
Following the directive, some private schools expressed concerns that the move could affect their planned graduation programmes and traditions.
GNACOPS calls for clarity
GNACOPS urged education authorities to engage stakeholders in the private education sector before implementing policies that affect private institutions.
The Council said clear communication and collaboration between regulators and private schools are important to prevent confusion and ensure smooth implementation of education policies.
It also reaffirmed its support for measures aimed at promoting discipline, child protection, and quality education.
Conclusion
While GES continues to regulate pre-tertiary education, Ghanaian private schools maintain that their graduation ceremonies are not banned under the current directive. GNACOPS has encouraged private schools to organise modest and meaningful celebrations that recognise students’ achievements without promoting unnecessary competition or financial pressure.
The development has renewed discussions about the need for stronger collaboration between education regulators and private school operators to ensure policies are clearly understood and fairly applied across Ghana’s education sector.