GES Confirms 2025/2026 Academic Dates for Basic Schools – Classes Resume Sept 2

Ghana Education Service Releases 2025/2026 Academic Calendar — First Term Begins September 2

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially unveiled the full academic calendar for basic schools—including Kindergarten, Primary, and Junior High School—for the 2025/2026 academic year. Signed by Daniel Fenyi, GES Head of Public Relations, this calendar sets a clear roadmap for schools, families, and communities

 Key Dates to Remember

 First Term

• Start: Tuesday, September 2, 2025
• Mid‑term Break: October 31 – November 3, 2025 (2 days)
• End: Thursday, December 18, 2025
• Holiday: December 19, 2025 – January 7, 2026

Second Term

• Start: Thursday, January 8, 2026
• Mid‑term Break: (typically 2 days)
• End: Thursday, April 1, 2026
• Holiday: April 2 – April 20, 2026

Third Term

• Start: Tuesday, April 21, 2026
• End: Thursday, July 23, 2026
• Vacation begins: July 24, 2026

Examination Dates

The Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) is scheduled for May 4–11, 2026, providing final-year JHS students a dedicated timeline for preparation

Public Holidays & Breaks

• Each term includes a two-day mid‑term break.
• Public holidays that land during the school year are to be observed as non-instructional days.

Why This Calendar Matters

• Returning to normalcy: This marks a full return to a September–July academic cycle, realigning with the West African exam schedule post‑COVID disruptions
• Smooth progression: A standardized calendar across basic and second‑cycle schools supports easier transitions into higher education.

What Stakeholders Should Do

• Heads & Teachers: Prepare lesson plans, including schedule adjustments that account for mid‑term and holiday breaks.
• Parents & Guardians: Organize childcare, travel plans, or camps around term and holiday periods.
• Students: Take note of breaks and exam focus periods to manage studies effectively.

Looking Ahead

With the academic year now firmly scheduled, the GES encourages all stakeholders to prepare materials, assign homework schedules, and plan co-curricular activities—ensuring students benefit fully from the structured environment.