On January 3, 2025, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo gave his final State of the Nation Address, highlighting the Free (SHS) Senior High School policy’s revolutionary effects and stating that no amount of criticism can negate its effectiveness.He underlined that over 5.7 million young Ghanaians now have access to school thanks to the program, which has resulted in record-breaking results in every core topic.
The Free SHS policy, which was implemented in 2017, reduces financial barriers for many families by providing free tuition, boarding, and meals for students attending public senior high schools. Despite obstacles like overcrowded classrooms and delayed funding, the program has been credited with expanding access to secondary education and enhancing academic performance.
President Akufo-Addo’s remarks come amid ongoing debates about the sustainability and management of the Free SHS policy.Critics have pointed to issues like funding constraints and infrastructure deficits, while supporters argue that the policy is a necessary investment in Ghana’s future workforce.
The President’s data highlights the Free SHS policy’s vital role in forming Ghana’s educational landscape as the country considers its successes and difficulties. In conversations about the nation’s progress, the program’s effects on student achievement and educational access will remain central.