The Ghana Education Service (GES) has reminded teachers across the country to adhere strictly to the professional dressing guidelines outlined in the GES Code of Conduct, emphasising that teachers must serve as role models for their students both in and out of the classroom.

According to the national document, which governs the conduct of all GES staff, “teachers shall serve as role models to learners, showing a high degree of decency in speech, mannerism, discipline, and dressing.”

While the GES does not prescribe a specific uniform for teachers, it enforces clear standards to ensure that their attire reflects the dignity, discipline, and moral integrity expected of the teaching profession.

Under the guidelines:

Avoid tight-fitting clothes.

Avoid miniskirts.

Avoid sleeveless dresses.

Avoid excessive makeup.

Avoid multi-coloured dresses and dyed hair.

Avoid wearing jeans to class.

Avoid round-neck T-shirts.

Avoid using earphones during working hours.

The GES noted that all teachers are expected to dress neatly and appropriately, maintaining a professional appearance that inspires respect and encourages discipline among students.

Education officers have observed that inappropriate dressing among some teachers, particularly in junior high schools (JHS 1–3), can negatively influence students’ behaviour and concentration.

Some male students, they say, become easily distracted, while some female students may imitate teachers who wear tight or revealing outfits.

The Service has therefore urged all heads of schools to ensure compliance with the code, stressing that the teacher’s image and comportment directly impact learners’ attitudes and moral development.

The reminder forms part of ongoing efforts by the Ghana Education Service to uphold professionalism, discipline, and ethical standards within the education sector.