Based on the official release from the Ghana Education Service (GES), here is a news article draft suitable for publication in a local newspaper or educational blog.
GES Releases Official 2026/2027 Academic Calendar for Basic Schools
ACCRA – The Management of the Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially released the approved academic calendar for the 2026/2027 academic year. The schedule applies to all Basic Schools across the country, encompassing Kindergarten, Primary, and Junior High Schools (JHS).
In a statement signed by Daniel Fenyi, Head of Public Relations at the GES, the service outlined a comprehensive roadmap for three terms, totaling 41 weeks of classroom instruction.
Breakdown of the Academic Year
The academic year is scheduled to begin in September 2026 and conclude in July 2027.
1. First Term: The Foundation (15 Weeks)
Reopening: 8th September 2026
Mid-Term Break: 5th & 6th November 2026
Closing: 17th December 2026
Vacation Period: 18th December 2026 – 4th. January 2027
2. Second Term: The Mid-Year Stretch (12 Weeks)
Reopening: 5th January 2027
Closing: 25th March 2027
Vacation Period: 26th March 2027 – 19th April. 2027
Third Term: The Final Lap (14 Weeks)
Reopening: 20th April 2027
Closing: 22nd July 2027
Vacation Begins: 23rd July 2027 (End of Academic Year)
2027 BECE Dates Confirmed
Crucially for final-year Junior High School students, the GES has also set the dates for the Basics Education Certificate Examination (BECE). The examination is scheduled to take place over one week, starting from Wednesday, 5th May to 12th May 2027.
Holidays and Preparation
The GES emphasized that all public holidays falling within these periods must be observed accordingly. Additionally, a two-day mid-term break will be observed in each term to allow students and teachers a brief period of rest.
"All heads of schools, teachers, parents, and guardians are urged to take note of these dates and ensure adequate preparation for a smooth and effective academic year," the statement concluded.
Parents and stakeholders are encouraged to align their travel and holiday plans with this official schedule to ensure students do not miss vital instructional time.