Writing a CV for government jobs in Ghana is different from writing a private-sector CV. Ministries, departments, and agencies such as GHS, GES, Immigration, Police, and other public institutions focus on qualifications, structure, and accuracy rather than creativity.
This guide explains how to write a proper government job CV in Ghana, with examples and tips to increase your chances of being shortlisted.
What Makes a Government Job CV Different?
A government CV must be:
- Clear and formal
- Chronological
- Truthful and verifiable
- Focused on qualifications and public service
Tip: Fancy designs, photos, and exaggerated claims are not recommended.
Standard CV Format for Government Jobs in Ghana
Your CV should be 2–4 pages and arranged in this order:
1: Personal Information
Include:
- Full name (as on certificates)
- Phone number
- Email address
- Residential address
- Date of birth
- Nationality
Do NOT include religion, marital status (unless required), or passport photo.
2: Career Objective (Optional but Recommended)
Keep it short and formal.
Example:
A dedicated graduate seeking a government position where my skills and training can contribute to effective public service delivery.
3: Educational Background
List from most recent to oldest.
Example:
- BSc Nursing – University of Cape Coast (2022)
- WASSCE – St. John’s SHS (2017)
Ensure your education matches the requirements stated on the GHS recruitment page or other government recruitment portals.
4: Professional Qualifications (If Any)
Include:
- Licenses (e.g. Nursing & Midwifery Council)
- Certificates
- Professional training
5: Work Experience / National Service
Include:
- Organization name
- Position
- Duration
- Key responsibilities
Example:
National Service Personnel – Municipal Health Directorate
- Assisted in patient record management
- Supported administrative duties
6: Skills (Relevant Only)
List job-related skills such as:
- Communication skills
- Record keeping
- Computer literacy
- Teamwork
Avoid generic skills with no relevance.
7: Referees
Provide 2–3 referees:
- Name
- Position
- Contact details
Referees should be people who know your work professionally.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Spelling and grammar errors
❌ Fake certificates or experience
❌ Using a private-sector CV format
❌ Submitting an outdated CV
These mistakes reduce your chances during shortlisting and interviews such as those for GHS shortlist & interview stages.
CV Tips That Increase Shortlisting Chances
- Match your CV to the job description
- Use simple fonts (Times New Roman or Arial)
- Save as PDF unless stated otherwise
- Apply early through the official GHS recruitment portal
Should You Attach Certificates?
Yes. Most government jobs in Ghana require:
- Academic certificates
- National Service certificate
- Professional license (if applicable)
Ensure documents are clear and valid.
A well-written government job CV in Ghana improves your chances but does not guarantee selection. Always follow official instructions and prepare for interviews if shortlisted.
For verified job updates, recruitment guides, and results, visit ghresults.com regularly.
How to Write a CV for Government Jobs in Ghana FAQs
Q1: Is a CV for a Ghana government job different from a private sector CV?
A: Yes. Government CVs in Ghana are often more formal, detailed, and must strictly adhere to specific guidelines in the job advert. They place a heavier emphasis on verifiable certificates, compliance with stated criteria, and service to the nation. While private sector CVs may be more achievement-focused, government CVs require a precise match of your qualifications to the listed requirements.
Q2: What is the standard format or structure?
A: Use a clear, reverse-chronological format. Essential sections are:
- Personal Details (Name, Contact, Ghana Post GPS, Ghana Card Number*)
- Career Objective/Profile (Tailored to the specific public service role)
- Work Experience (Emphasize public sector or relevant experience)
- Education & Qualifications (List from highest to lowest)
- Professional Certifications & Training
- Technical & Soft Skills
- References (Usually 3, with at least one being a professional supervisor)
*Include only if requested in the advert.
Q3: How long should it be?
A: For experienced candidates, 2-3 pages is acceptable. For entry-level roles, aim for 1-2 pages. The key is to be comprehensive yet concise. Do not omit critical information to fit one page if you have relevant experience.
Q4: What personal details must I include?
A: Beyond your name, phone, and email, government CVs often require:
- Ghana Card Number (mandatory for most posts)
- Ghana Post Digital Address
- Nationality (typically “Ghanaian”)
- Date of Application (on the CV header)
Q5: Should I include my NSS certificate and details?
A: Absolutely. Completion of National Service is a mandatory requirement for most permanent government positions. List your NSS year, station, and role in the Education or Work Experience section.
Q6: Do I need to include my date of birth, marital status, or religion?
A: Only if explicitly requested in the job advertisement. Modern best practice is to omit these to prevent bias, but always follow the specific instructions in the government advert. If in doubt, include them in a brief “Personal Information” section.
Q7: How should I list my education for government jobs?
A: Be meticulous. For each entry, state:
- Certificate Obtained (e.g., BA Economics, WASSCE)
- Name of Institution
- Year of Graduation
- Location
Q8: Are references crucial, and who should I choose?
A: Yes, they are critical for background checks. Provide three referees. Include:
- A former Academic Supervisor (Lecturer, Head of Department).
- A former or current Work Supervisor.
- A reputable Community Leader or Professional Colleague.
Always ask for their permission first and provide their full name, title, organization, phone number, and email.
Q9: How do I tailor my CV for a specific government ministry or agency?
A:
- Research: Understand the mandate, mission, and current priorities of the agency (e.g., Ministry of Education, GRA, Ghana Health Service).
- Use Keywords: Mirror the exact phrases and terminology from the job description in your Profile, Skills, and Experience sections.
- Highlight Relevant Experience: Even if from the private sector, frame your achievements to show how they serve public interest, governance, or national development.
Q10: Is a “Career Objective” section important?
A: Yes. Write a 3-4 line powerful summary that states your profession, key skills, years of experience, and your specific desire to contribute to that public sector institution. This shows intentionality.
