The Minister of Education, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, is set to appear before Parliament today to discuss the date for the reopening of schools. This comes after Parliament requested a rescheduling of the reopening date from December 4 to the first week of January. The aim is to ensure that parents, students, and teachers have adequate time to prepare for the new academic year. Despite concerns about the short notice, the Ministry of Education has maintained that the reopening date for fresh Senior High School students will remain December 4, 2023, as stated in the academic calendar released by the Ghana Education Service (GES).
Importance of Adequate Preparation Time
Recognizing the significance of providing sufficient time for preparation, Parliament has emphasized the need for parents, students, and teachers to adequately prepare for the upcoming academic year. The first week of January 2024 has been proposed as a more convenient and appropriate time for all stakeholders involved. This will allow for a smoother transition into the new academic year and ensure that everyone is well-prepared to resume academic work.
Concerns Raised by Stakeholders
The concerns raised by Members of Parliament and other stakeholders regarding the short notice of the reopening date cannot be overlooked. It is crucial to consider the potential inconveniences faced by students, parents, teaching, and non-teaching staff. The abruptness of the announcement may hinder proper planning and readiness for the new academic year. In light of these concerns, the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has directed the Minister of Education to appear before the House and provide a briefing on this matter.
The Position of the Ghana Education Service (GES)
The GES has reiterated its stance on the reopening date, stating that it remains December 4, 2023, as indicated on the placement form. The GES expects schools to commence registration and orientation activities from this date onwards. However, it is important to note that the academic calendar allows for a Christmas break starting on December 21, 2023, and resuming on January 3, 2024. Academic activities are then expected to continue until March 5, 2024.
Call for Collaboration and Patience
The GES appreciates the collaboration and support from all stakeholders in the ongoing process of student placement through the Computerized School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS). They urge students who are yet to complete their self-placement to do so promptly. Furthermore, they emphasize the need for patience in order to ensure a smooth implementation of the academic calendar for Senior High Schools. The goal is to return to the pre-COVID academic calendar while ensuring minimal disruptions.
Summary
The appearance of the Minister of Education before Parliament today marks an important step in addressing concerns surrounding the reopening date for schools. It is crucial that all stakeholders work together to find a suitable solution that allows for adequate preparation time while minimizing disruptions to the academic calendar. The focus should remain on providing a conducive learning environment for students and ensuring their educational journey continues seamlessly.
(This article is sourced from 3news.com and curated by Monica Bellew | Mydailyreports24)
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