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GES Strategy Tests: Only Shortlisted Lecturers With Index Numbers Eligible

Introduction

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a critical update regarding the upcoming national trainer strategy examinations. In a directive aimed at ensuring a streamlined and credible process, the Service has confirmed that the examinations will proceed as scheduled on December 29 and 30. However, a strict eligibility criterion has been enforced: only teaching staff who have been successfully shortlisted and issued an official index number will be permitted to write the exams. This announcement serves as a definitive guide for Assistant Director II, Principal Superintendent, Assistant Director I, and Deputy Director applicants preparing for these pivotal career advancement assessments.

Key Points

Background

The Ghana Education Service (GES) regularly conducts strategy examinations as part of the professional development and promotion protocol for teaching staff. These assessments are designed to evaluate the readiness and competence of educators moving up the administrative ladder, specifically for ranks such as Assistant Director II, Principal Superintendent, Assistant Director I, and Deputy Director.

According to a statement dated December 26, signed by the Ag. Deputy Director-General, Prof. Smile Dzisi, the Service has been processing applications for this cycle. The GES emphasized that the shortlisting process was not arbitrary but was “carried out strictly based on authorized eligibility criteria and documentation requirements.” This rigorous vetting process implies that some applications were not considered due to non-compliance with these standards. As a result, the Service has now finalized the list of eligible candidates who will proceed to the next phase of the promotion process.

Analysis

The directive that “only candidates who have been issued index numbers are accredited to report to exam centres” represents a significant tightening of examination protocols. This measure is likely implemented to curb impersonation, prevent unauthorized individuals from disrupting the process, and ensure that only qualified and processed candidates participate.

Implications for Candidates

For the teaching staff, this policy means that the presence of an SMS containing the Staff ID and Index Number is the sole “ticket” for entry. The GES has explicitly warned that lecturers who have not received this official communication should not report to any examination center. This eliminates ambiguity and places the responsibility on the candidate to verify their status prior to the examination dates.

The Role of Digital Communication

The reliance on SMS for the dissemination of critical information (Index Numbers and Exam Centres) highlights the GES’s move toward digital-first communication. It underscores the importance of candidates keeping their contact information up to date with the Service to avoid missing out on time-sensitive opportunities.

Practical Advice

To ensure a smooth examination experience, candidates should adhere to the following practical steps:

1. Verification of Status

Before leaving for the examination center, double-check your mobile device for the official SMS from GES. If you believe you are eligible but have not received a message, check the physical shortlists posted at your regional or district education offices.

2. Required Documents

Prepare the following documents the night before the exam:

• A valid National Identification Card (Ghana Card).
• Writing materials (blue or black ballpoint pens).

3. Proper Identification on Scripts

During the examination, ensure that you clearly write your Staff ID and Index Number on all examination papers. Failure to do so may invalidate your script.

4. Procedure for Omitted Candidates

If you acquired your last promotion in or before 2021 and possess the necessary qualifications but were omitted from the shortlist, take the following steps immediately:

• Compile your last promotion letter.
• Gather evidence of your application for the current cycle.
• Submit these documents to your Regional Education Office to facilitate a review.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Ghana Education Service’s latest directive clarifies the strict protocols governing the upcoming strategy examinations. By mandating the possession of an official index number and valid identification, the GES aims to facilitate a “smooth, credible, and well-coordinated” assessment process. Lecturers are urged to comply strictly with these guidelines, verify their status through official channels, and ensure all documentation is in order to avoid disappointment on examination days.

Sources

• Ghana Education Service (GES) Official Press Statement, dated December 26.
• Communications from the Office of the Ag. Deputy Director-General, Prof. Smile Dzisi.
• Regional Education Office directives regarding shortlisting and eligibility criteria.