Free SHS Needs only Improvement not Review
The Education Minister, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, doesn’t want to review the Akufo-Addo government’s most popular program, the Free Senior High School (SHS)
He said that the plan needs better results and that teachers need to be well-trained and supported to do their jobs well for everyone.
In an interview on Citi FM on Tuesday, January 9, he dismissed former President John Mahama’s calls for a review.
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Dr. Adutwum believes such calls are misplaced and should not be entertained by Ghanaian parents.
His remarks underscore the commitment of the Education Minister to uphold the Free SHS programme, while emphasising the importance of enhancing the quality of education through effective teacher training and support.
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“Anything that you do, there will be areas that need improvements. To make things better, we can train teachers to teach better.
The Minister also rejected proposals for parents to cover boarding fees, while maintaining that day education should continue to be free of charge.
“No… We must enhance the educational outcomes and ensure that the investment is worth the time and effort of Ghanaians,
so that they are aware that their taxes are being utilized for their benefit, and that we are bridging the gap between the wealthy and the impoverished..”
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During a stop on his ongoing national tour, former President John Mahama reiterated his commitment to reviewing the Free SHS policy if elected president in the 2024 elections.
He proposed convening a stakeholder conference in the education sector within the first 100 days of his government to assess both the Free SHS policy and the broader education sector.
However, the Minister expressed scepticism about Mr. Mahama’s ability to fulfil this promise, suggesting that he cannot be trusted to deliver on such commitments.
I think the education minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum is confused when it comes to Free education. He should ask other countries that are practicing free education and see. He will understand that they don’t use “apor” to make sure that students pass. I know of free education students who are out with very good results some even got A1 in English and Mathematics but cannot even construct simple sentences. He should be ashamed of himself. Now such people will become Doctors, Nurses, Teachers. How do you think this person who is a doctor will treat if you goes to the hospital? Such person being a teacher how do you think he will be able to teach? I don’t also blame them because whenever they are sick they will travel out to treat themselves. Have you seen any of them whose children are educating in Ghana?