The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, has accused the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government of having double standards regarding the review of the Free Senior High School Policy.
Despite calls for a review of the free SHS program introduced in 2017, the NPP government has consistently refused such suggestions. They argue that the policy requires improvement rather than a complete review.
Speaking at the launch of the Ghana National Association of Private Schools week with the theme “2024 Elections: The Private Education Manifesto,” Mr Mahama criticized the NPP for their conflicting stance. He pointed out the government’s commitment to consider conducting a review of the policy in a document submitted to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) while presenting a different narrative to the Ghanaian public.
Mr Mahama noted the disparity between the government’s promises to the IMF and their communication with the citizens, highlighting what he sees as a lack of transparency and consistency in their approach.
He called out the government’s pledge to review and rationalize the free SHS in an agreement with the IMF, emphasizing the need for clarity and honesty in the discussion.
Mr Mahama also encouraged the public to read the Eduwatch report, particularly focusing on the free SHS. The report reveals that over 196,000 children did not take up their place in the free SHS program between 2021 and the present, despite being eligible. The report also shows that the government has spent approximately ¢5.8 billion on the program, with 77% of the funding coming from parents and 23% from the government.
The call for a review, according to Mr Mahama, stems from the need to address the issues highlighted in the report and ensure the effectiveness and inclusivity of the free SHS policy.
