GES Recruitment Portal Closure: What Comes Next for Applicants – Minister Speaks
The Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has defended the recent shutdown of the Ghana Education Service (GES) recruitment portal, describing the action as a deliberate measure to control the surge in applications and protect the credibility of the recruitment exercise.
Addressing the media in Accra, Mr. Iddrisu indicated that the decision was aimed at maintaining an organised, transparent, and efficient process that would not be overwhelmed by excessive submissions.
He disclosed that the portal experienced an extraordinary influx of interest, attracting more than 40,000 applications within a short time after it was opened. While he admitted that this reflects the growing enthusiasm among graduates to enter the teaching profession, he also pointed out the administrative pressure such large numbers can create.
“We recorded over 40,000 applications, which highlights the strong interest. However, the target for this phase is 7,000 recruits,” Mr. Iddrisu stated.
He further explained that the recruitment exercise will strictly follow a merit-based approach, where only candidates who meet the required assessment standards will progress to the final stages.
Providing additional clarification, the Minister revealed that the portal had been programmed to close automatically once the application threshold was reached. This, he noted, was intended to avoid what he described as an uncontrolled influx that could compromise both efficiency and fairness.
“We wanted to avoid a situation where the system becomes overstretched. The closure was necessary to preserve the credibility and manageability of the process,” he added.
Mr. Iddrisu emphasised that limiting the number of applications allows the GES to conduct detailed screening and assessments without unnecessary delays or operational challenges. He reiterated that the recruitment exercise prioritises competence over sheer numbers.
“This exercise is not driven by quantity but by quality. Our goal is to engage qualified professionals who can make meaningful contributions to the education sector,” he said.
The Minister also assured applicants that the process is still ongoing and that all submitted entries will be carefully reviewed to ensure that only suitable candidates are selected.
He further announced that individuals who were unsuccessful, as well as those who could not apply, will have another opportunity, as the portal is expected to reopen once financial clearance is granted by the Ministry of Finance to support additional recruitment.
“This exercise is linked to budgetary approval. Once clearance is secured from the Finance Ministry, the portal will be reopened,” he explained.
Mr. Iddrisu therefore appealed to applicants to remain calm and trust the process.
“We acknowledge the concerns of job seekers, but we want to assure the public that the process remains fair, transparent, and ongoing,” he concluded.