March 9th is a Holiday for Private and Public Basic Schools

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has reiterated that today, Monday, March 9, 2026, is an official holiday for all Basic Schools (both Public and Private) across the country.

Traditionally, the first working day following the March 6 Independence Day celebrations is granted to teachers and learners as a much-needed day of rest. This practice, which has been in existence for over 30 years, is designed to allow participants in the grueling Independence Day parades and school activities to recover before resuming academic work.

The “Defiant” Private Schools: A Call for Sanctions

Reports reaching Ghana Education News indicate that several private basic schools have attempted to defy this long-standing directive by compelling teachers and students to report for normal classes today.

This move is not only incorrect but also unfair to the teaching and non-teaching staff who deserve this break. We call on the Ghana Education Service (GES) to take a firm stand and sanction any private institution found to be in breach of this national directive. Furthermore, the various Private School Unions must break their silence and protect the welfare of their staff and learners.

Important: Resumption Dates for Public vs. Private Schools

While today is a universal holiday for all basic schools, the resumption schedule differs slightly due to the Public School Mid-Term break.

• Private Schools: Students and teachers are expected to return to the classroom on Tuesday, March 10, 2026.

  

• Public Schools: Because Tuesday, March 10, has been designated as an additional Mid-Term holiday for the public sector, those learners will enjoy one extra day of rest and report back on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.

READ: WAEC 2026 BECE Timetable: Full Schedule and Success Guide for Candidates

A Note to Parents

Parents whose wards are in basic schools should not hesitate to keep their children at home today. Ensure your children are safe and well-rested. The safety and well-being of the Ghanaian learner remains a top priority, and “cutting corners” to gain an extra day of tuition at the expense of a national holiday is a practice that must be discouraged.