GES reverts to old calendar; basic schools to reopen on September 2

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has reverted to the traditional academic calendar structure, starting from September and ending in July, for the 2025/2026 academic year.

In a circular dated July 11, 2025, and signed by Mr. Prince C. Agyemang-Duah, Director of the Schools and Instructions Division, the GES directed all Regional Directors of Education to ensure the effective implementation of the approved calendar.

The shift marks a return to the pre-COVID-19 academic rhythm, aiming to restore normalcy and improve academic planning and consistency nationwide.

According to the GES, the new calendar affects all public basic schools—Kindergarten, Primary, and Junior High Schools—and is intended to streamline teaching and learning activities across all levels.

Term Dates for 2025/2026 Academic Year:

First Term

• Starts: Tuesday, September 2, 2025
• Ends: Thursday, December 18, 2025
• Vacation: December 19, 2025 – January 7, 2026
• Mid-Term Break: October 31 – November 3, 2025

Second Term

• Starts: Wednesday, January 8, 2026
• Ends: Wednesday, April 1, 2026
• Vacation: April 2 – April 20, 2026

Third Term

• Starts: Tuesday, April 21, 2026
• Ends: Thursday, July 23, 2026
• End of Academic Year: Friday, July 24, 2026

A key feature of the calendar is the scheduling of the 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), which will take place from Monday, May 4 to Monday, May 11, 2026.

The timeline provides JHS 3 students with sufficient preparation time after completing their second term.

GES further indicated that all public holidays falling within the academic calendar would be observed, and a two-day mid-term break would continue in each term to ensure teacher and student wellness.

The Service commended all stakeholders—including school heads, teachers, parents, and students—for their efforts throughout the 2024/2025 academic year, which officially ends on Thursday, July 24, 2025.

GES encouraged all education stakeholders to take note of the new schedule and begin preparations to ensure a productive and disruption-free academic year.