Revamping Ghana’s Free SHS Policy

Established by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in 2017, Ghana’s Free Senior High School (SHS) policy has sought to eliminate tuition fees and other related expenses, thus offering all qualified students easy accessibility to education. Over seven years, the previous administration has spent over GH¢8.4 billion educating 5.7 million students.

Notwithstanding this initiative, problems like infrastructural shortcomings, funding restrictions, and delays in resource allocation continued to arise. These problems called for questions about the viability of the program and degraded the quality of instruction.

Research conducted by (Boakye, 2019) reveals that many parents express appreciation for the financial relief the coverage offers because it lessens the cost of education. In spite of these benefits, some parents underline continuous financial difficulties. Research by Africa Education Watch reveals that parents are still bearing the majority of expenses under the free SHS policy, covering costs like uniforms, books, and other basics.

Also, issues concerning the quality of education have also surfaced as rising enrolment results in packed classrooms and a strain on resources.

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Although many of these beneficiaries value the chance to continue secondary school free of charge, others have criticized it for challenges such as poor infrastructure, limited access to learning materials, and overpopulated classrooms. Some explain that these problems have impacted their general student well-being and academic performance.

Notwithstanding the difficulties of the Free SHS policy, it has clearly increased access to education, therefore helping many families in Ghana, particularly those from poor areas who before had little possibilities of schooling after they graduated from junior high school.

The present government has promised to improve the Free SHS program. However, given inflation and rising enrolment rates, addressing current issues needs a significant financial commitment, probably more than the previous GH8.4 billion investment.

Maintaining the program depends critically on a number of provisions to be made. It is fortunate for the NDC that this policy has already been implemented, as it has revealed shortcomings that, once addressed, will help improve the policy in its revised form.

Considering the challenges the NPP government faced, the Mahama administration needs to pay attention to investing in infrastructure to guarantee enough learning space and help ease overcrowding. Some individuals have suggested that the government should permit affluent families to bear the cost of their children’s education, guaranteeing that resources go to those most in need. This can help ensure that limited resources are allocated more efficiently and effectively.

Also, inasmuch as this is a government policy, it would be more efficient if those at the receiving end are involved in the evaluation of the policy. Involving parents, teachers, and lawmakers in frequent policy evaluations will guarantee efficient delivery of education and help them to adjust to new issues.

By considering these approaches, the effectiveness of the Free SHS program may be improved, ensuring fair and high-quality education for every student in Ghana.

In summary, while the Free SHS program has achieved progress in increasing access to education, its continued operation depends on the capacity of the present administration to handle infrastructure and budgetary problems. Maintaining the goal of providing all Ghanaian students with high-quality education depends on a constant dedication to financing and resource distribution.

Source: Xtrememediaonline.com