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Free SHS is an Investment Policy – Education Ministry PRO

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Free SHS is an investment policy – Education Ministry PRO Kwasi Kwarteng , the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Education Ministry , has stressed that the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy should be seen as an investment — not merely an expenditure. He explained that maintaining and improving the quality of the policy requires significant resources, much like any other long-term national investment. Yet, many citizens tend to focus only on its financial cost rather than its broader social and economic benefits. Education as a Strategic Investment According to Kwarteng, the Ministry’s focus is on three key pillars — access, quality, and relevance . These, he said, are constantly being reviewed to ensure they contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s development. He pointed out that since the introduction of Free SHS , enrolment rates have increased dramatically. Before the policy, many students dropped out after their first or second year due to financial difficulties. The pro...

Engage Stakeholders to Review Free SHS Policy – President of Paediatric Society

Engage stakeholders to review Free SHS policy – President of Paediatric Society

Dr. Hilda Mantebea Boye, President of the Paediatric Society of Ghana, has called on the government to engage all stakeholders to review the Free SHS policy.

While she acknowledged the major successes of the initiative, Dr. Boye noted that growing concerns from parents, teachers, and beneficiaries show it’s time for a re-evaluation of how effectively the policy is working.

Dr. Hilda Mantebea Boye, President of the Paediatric Society of Ghana,


Stakeholders Must Be Involved

Speaking on JoyNews’ National Dialogue on the Free SHS Promise, Dr. Boye stressed that discussions must include every relevant voice — from educators and parents to policymakers — to address the challenges the programme faces.

She pointed out the need for transparency and openness, especially around the quality of meals provided to students and other practical issues in implementation.


Policy Should Have Been Tested First

According to Dr. Boye, the policy would have benefitted from pilot stages before being rolled out nationwide. This would have helped to identify potential problems early and reduce the current operational struggles.

She also underlined the importance of consultation and inclusivity in policymaking — particularly in education, where access and quality directly impact the nation’s future.

Encouraging Open Conversation

Dr. Boye expressed concern that some stakeholders hesitate to share honest feedback due to fear of repercussions. She encouraged the creation of a platform where all perspectives could be heard, respected, and integrated into future reforms.

In her closing remarks, she said:

“Have the right people — all stakeholders — together to have conversations. Everyone wants children to have access to quality education. Parents are stakeholders. Teachers are stakeholders. The government is a major stakeholder. So how do we move forward from here?”

Her call emphasises the importance of continuous review and collaboration in shaping sustainable education policies that serve everyone fairly.

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