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GES Releases 2026/2027 Academic Calendar for Basic Schools: Reopening Set for September 8

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially announced the approved academic calendar for the 2026/2027 academic year for all basic schools across the country, covering Kindergarten (KG), Primary, and Junior High Schools (JHS).

This announcement, signed by Daniel Fenyi, Head of Public Relations at GES, provides clear dates for reopening, term durations, vacations, mid-term breaks, and the all-important Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).

Full Breakdown of the 2026/2027 Academic Calendar

First Term (15 Weeks)

Reopening Date: Tuesday, 8th September 2026
Closing Date: Thursday, 17th December 2026
Mid-term Break: Monday, 5th & Tuesday, 6th November 2026 (2 days)
Vacation Period: Friday, 18th December 2026 to Monday, 4th January 2027

Second Term (12 Weeks)

Reopening Date: Tuesday, 5th January 2027
Closing Date: Thursday, 25th March 2027
Vacation Period: Friday, 26th March 2027 to Monday, 19th April 2027

Third Term (14 Weeks)

Reopening Date: Tuesday, 20th April 2027
Closing Date: Thursday, 22nd July 2027
This marks the end of the 2026/2027 academic year.

BECE 2027 Schedule

The Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) for 2027 is scheduled to take place from: Wednesday, 5th May 2027 to Wednesday, 12th May 2027

This gives JHS 3 students sufficient preparation time after the third term begins.

Mid-term Breaks and Public Holidays

The GES has introduced a consistent two-day mid-term break in each of the three terms to help reduce student and teacher fatigue. All public holidays falling within the academic terms will be observed as usual.

Key Implications for Parents, Teachers & Schools

Parents & Guardians: Mark these dates in your calendars now. Plan holidays, family events, and transportation arrangements early. The long Christmas vacation in 2026/2027 is relatively short compared to previous years.
Teachers & School Heads: Use the vacation periods for effective planning, in-service training, and school maintenance.
Candidates (BECE 2027): The exam falls in early May, giving schools and students a focused revision window after the Easter break.
School Feeding & Logistics: School authorities should begin preparations for the September 8 reopening to ensure a smooth start.

Why This Calendar Matters

A well-structured academic calendar helps bring predictability and stability to Ghana’s basic education system. With the return to a more consistent three-term structure, stakeholders can better plan teaching and learning activities while maintaining high academic standards.

The GES has urged all heads of schools, teachers, parents, and guardians to take note of these dates and make adequate preparations for a successful academic year.

Important Advice

Always cross-check important dates with your ward’s school, as individual schools may adjust slightly for internal activities.
Download and print the official calendar once it is widely circulated by GES.
BECE candidates and their parents should start serious preparations early, especially in core subjects.