Are you preparing your child for Senior High School (SHS) in 2024? The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued the National SHS Prospectus for SHS1 students, outlining essential items required for both day and boarding students. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the 2024 SHS prospectus to help parents and students prepare efficiently for the academic year ahead.

Overview of the 2024 National SHS Prospectus

In 2023, the Ghana Education Service (GES) introduced a standardized SHS1 prospectus for all public schools. The aim was to streamline requirements and eliminate the challenges posed by different school-specific prospectuses. For 2024, the list remains largely the same, covering essential items for students placed in day or boarding schools. These items will be part of the school placement documents accessible through the CSSPS portal once placements are announced.

Why Was the National SHS Prospectus Introduced?

The National SHS Prospectus was launched by the Minister of Education, in collaboration with Dr. Eric Nkansah, Director-General of the GES. The purpose was to reduce the burden on parents caused by overly extensive school-specific requirements and to standardize what each student should bring to school. This move addressed public concerns and sparked national discussions.

Essential SHS 1 Prospectus Items for 2024

Whether your child is placed in a day or boarding school, there are general items every SHS1 student is required to bring, as well as additional items specific to boarding students.

General Items for All SHS1 Students

Valid NHIS card

National ID card (Ghana card, if available)

Two passport-size photographs

Photocopy of birth or baptismal certificate (if required by the school)


Boarding School Students’ Prospectus

When placed in a boarding school, students will need the following:

Hard body suitcase or trunk

Chop box (wooden or plastic)

Drinking cup, 1 plastic or stainless plate, and cutlery set

Toiletries (deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, etc.)

Decent sandals, leather slippers, and sneakers (school-approved)

Pajamas or sleepwear

Underwear (specific to gender)

Pillow with Mackintosh cover, 2 bedsheets, and 2 pillowcases (plain white)

Student’s size mosquito net

1 school bag, mathematical set, scientific calculator, and graph book

Religious books (Bible, Quran, Hymn Book, based on school requirements)


In addition, students are divided into three groups for specific cleaning supplies:

1. Hand gloves and liquid soap


2. Bleach, dustpan, long-handle broom


3. Mop, mop bucket, and duster



Day School Students’ Prospectus

Day students are required to bring:

Mathematical set

Scientific calculator

School bag

Decent sandals and sneakers (school-approved)


Preparing for SHS Placements in 2024

Although 2024 school placements for BECE graduates have not yet been released, parents should familiarize themselves with the prospectus and begin saving for the required items. However, it’s important not to purchase too many items ahead of time, as placement in either day or boarding school will determine which specific items are needed.

Final Thoughts

The 2024 SHS prospectus is designed to ease the transition for SHS1 students and their parents. By following the standardized list, you can avoid unnecessary expenses and ensure that your child is fully prepared for the academic year. Keep an eye on official announcements from GES regarding placements, and plan accordingly.

For updates on school placements and more, stay tuned to this page!