The Ghana Education Service has issued a firm directive to all schools across the country to observe the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr and Easter holidays as statutory public holidays, while making provisions for boarding students who opt to remain on campus.
In a circular dated March 17, 2026, signed by Professor Smile Dzisi, Acting Deputy Director-General for Management Services, the GES reminded regional directors that the holidays—scheduled for March 20 and 23 (Eid-ul-Fitr), and April 3 and 6 (Easter)—are nationally recognised festivities and must be duly honoured by all educational institutions.
“Management of the Ghana Education Service wishes to remind all Regional Directors that the Eid-ul-Fitr and Easter holidays, which dates are 20th and 23rd March, and 3rd and 6th April, respectively, are recognised statutory holidays in Ghana and must therefore be duly observed by all schools across the country,” the circular stated.
Provisions for Boarding Students
Recognising that some students in boarding facilities may choose not to travel home during the holiday period, the GES has made clear provisions for their accommodation and care.
“However, Management also acknowledges that some students in boarding facilities may choose not to travel home during the holiday period. In such cases, schools are permitted to allow these students to remain on campus,” the circular explained.
School heads have been directed to make appropriate arrangements to ensure the welfare and supervision of students who stay behind. “Appropriate arrangements are to be made by school heads to ensure their welfare and supervision during this period,” the directive added.
Implementation Directives
Regional directors have been tasked with communicating the directive to all heads of schools within their jurisdictions through metro, municipal, and district directors. They are also required to ensure that necessary measures are put in place for the safe accommodation, feeding, and supervision of boarding students who decide to remain on campus.
The GES expressed appreciation for cooperation in ensuring the smooth implementation of the directive.
Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan observed by Muslims, while Easter commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ for Christians. Both are recognised as statutory public holidays in Ghana.
