What is an Unapproved Transfer in the Ghana Education Service – By Ellis Ferdinand

Ferdinand | EducationGhana | September 14 | What is an Unapproved Transfer in the Ghana Education Service – By Ellis Ferdinand

Learn about unapproved transfers in the Ghana Education Service (GES), their causes, and the challenges they present, with insights from Ellis Ferdinand.

A transfer in the Ghana Education Service (GES) refers to the movement of teachers from one school to another, either within the same district, across districts within the same region, or between regions. Transfers typically take effect at the beginning of an academic year and are usually done to address staffing needs or at the request of the teacher. However, a transfer becomes unapproved or unofficial when it fails to follow the GES’s established procedures.

Procedures for Approved Transfers

Intra-district transfers, which occur at the district level, require consultation with the regional education directorate to ensure proper documentation. Transfers, especially those due to overstaffing or teacher shortages, may also require grants, and in some cases, teachers may be transferred without their consent if there are disciplinary reasons.

For inter-district transfers, it’s essential to inform the region and ensure proper records are updated both at the regional and national levels. Regional transfers require the approval of the Director-General of the GES, and delays in this process are common but generally not rejected.

What Constitutes an Unapproved Transfer?

An unapproved transfer occurs when districts or regions fail to follow the necessary procedures for teacher movement. If a transfer is made without proper consultation or authorization, it is deemed unauthorized. Examples of unapproved transfers include:

• Transfers initiated by districts without informing the regional office.
• Transfers made without adherence to documentation and proper protocols.

Unapproved transfers often lead to administrative challenges, including salary payment issues, unrecognized postings, and complications with teacher benefits. They can also result in disciplinary action for the parties involved.

Management’s Directive on Unauthorized Transfers

To address the issue of unapproved transfers, Dr. Kwabena Bempah Tandoh, the Deputy Director-General (Quality and Assurance), issued a directive on September 11, 2024. All Regional Directors of Education have been instructed to reverse unauthorized transfers and halt any further unapproved transfers until further notice.

The GES is counting on the cooperation of its district and regional directors to enforce these rules and ensure compliance with GES procedures.