Types of Leave Available for Teachers in Ghana

Leave is a crucial aspect of the welfare and rights of teachers under the Ghana Education Service (GES). Leave is abreak or time off from work that a teacher (or any worker) is allowed to take for a good reason.

For example, a teacher may take leave when they are sick, having a baby, traveling, or attending school. During this time, they do not teach, but the school knows and agrees to it. It is a legal way for teachers to rest or handle personal issues without losing their job.

The “Teachers’ Leave Types and Guidelines” provide direction on how teachers (educators) should apply for leave, what types of leave exist, and the procedures heads of schools must follow in processing leave requests.

In simple terms, these rules help make sure that when teachers want to take a break from work – like when they are sick, having a baby, or going to school – they follow the right steps. It also helps school leaders know what to do when teachers apply for leave. The goal is to treat all teachers fairly, be open about decisions, ensure that school activities continue even in their absence, and help teachers stay healthy, take care of their families, and develop their careers.

It is important to note that every teacher is entitled to leave, whether in the office or at the classroom.

Types of Leave Available to Teachers in Ghana

Teachers under the GES are entitled to various types of leave including:

Annual Leave – This type of leave is granted to teachers based on their rank within the Ghana Education Service. PS rank and below are entitled to 21 working days, AD II to DD have 28 working days, and DDE to DG are entitled to 36 working days as their annual leave.
Casual/Emergency Leave – A maximum of 10 working days is granted to a teacher as casual or emergency leave. This must be spread over the academic year, which consists of three terms, and is meant for personal reasons.
Sick Leave – A teacher may be granted leave for up to 6 months on the recommendation of a recognised medical practitioner, with full salary. An additional 6 months may be granted on half salary, making a total of 12 months.
Maternity Leave – A female teacher is granted 12 weeks of leave (with possible extension for complications) based on the expected date of confinement (estimated date when a pregnant woman is expected to give birth), as certified by a recognised medical practitioner or midwife. This is stipulated in Section 57(1) of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651).
Paternity Leave – This is a 5-working-day leave granted to male teachers whose wives have given birth.
Study Leave With/Without Pay – This type of leave is granted to teachers by the GES for specific courses, from a first degree to a PhD, including industrial and/or professional qualifications. It is subject to strict GES conditions.
Leave of Absence (without pay) – This type of leave is granted to a teacher for personal or special assignments, such as traveling abroad, political appointments, or other personal matters for one year or more. Note: The years spent on this leave are not counted toward one’s years of service.
Compassionate Leave – This kind of leave is granted to a teacher who is experiencing bereavement or severe family distress. Such special leave should not exceed ten (10) working days and shall not be deducted from earned leave.
Examination Leave – Teachers are granted leave for approved entrance examinations, professional examinations, promotion interviews, and degree or equivalent examinations.
Terminal Leave – Teachers who are due for retirement are granted three (3) months’ leave prior to their retirement date. This is optional for the teacher.