Former Director-General and Rector of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration, Prof Stephen Adei, has joined the growing chorus of voices calling for a review of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy in Ghana. He emphasized that while the policy has facilitated access to education for underprivileged individuals, it is now time for a critical review to enhance its effectiveness.
During an appearance on the Joy News AM show, Prof Adei emphasized the importance of President Akufo-Addo initiating this review promptly instead of waiting for a change in government. He highlighted a study indicating that for every one cedi the government spends on a student in secondary schools, parents contribute about three cedis. These financial realities need to be taken into account in the policy review process.
Prof Adei proposed a shift towards establishing quality day schools, with parents bearing the cost of boarding while the government provides scholarships to disadvantaged students. This approach aims to ensure that access to boarding schools is not limited to the wealthy but is inclusive of all socio-economic backgrounds.
The Free SHS policy, a flagship programme of the New Patriotic Party administration, has sparked debates since its inception in 2017. While many applaud the initiative for removing financial barriers to secondary education, there are concerns about its implementation. Challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and the double-track system have been raised, along with issues related to food supply and the restriction on additional charges by school heads.
Critics argue that the policy has compromised the quality of education at the SHS level, a claim contested by the government citing improved pass rates among SHS candidates. The National Democratic Congress’ flagbearer, John Mahama, has pledged to review the policy to safeguard educational quality if elected in 2024.
President Akufo-Addo’s recent call for an enhanced Free SHS has drawn attention to the need for continuous improvement in the policy rather than its cancellation. The distinction between the NDC’s plan to review and the government’s strategy for improvement has been underscored by the NPP, with emphasis on expanding infrastructure, teacher training, and vocational education inclusion under the Free SHS.
As the debate surrounding the Free SHS policy continues, it is evident that a review is necessary to address existing challenges and enhance the quality of education for all Ghanaian students. Initiating this process promptly and incorporating diverse perspectives can lead to the sustainable improvement of the Free SHS policy in Ghana.
