Free SHS programme has improved Ghana’s education outcomes – Dr Bawumia

Introduced in September 2017, the Vice-President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia says the implementation of Free Senior High School (Free SHS) has improved education outcomes rather than decreased the quality of education in the country.

Speaking at a gathering of Religious and Opinion leaders, Bawumia said the excellent performance and statistics of past WASSCE graduates indicate the flagship programme has contributed to the country’s improved education outcomes.

Refuting claims that the Free SHS has decreased the quality of education, the NPP flagbearer urged the leaders to consider his government’s achievement in the education sector and vote for him in the upcoming December 7, 2024 general elections.

Relatedly, Vice-President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has reaffirmed his dedication to continue with the implementation of the Free Senior High School policy emphasising that it will be secure under his leadership.

In an interview with Africa Watch Magazine, the leader of the New Patriotic Party said “The policy has therefore been a resounding success. That does not mean it is without problems. There is more to be done to improve it.”

Dr Mahamudu Bawumia added that “I am committed to the Free SHS policy, and I believe it would be safe and sustainable in my hands.”

To ensure the initiative is fit for purpose, he pledged his government will to construct additional infrastructure such as classroom blocks, dormitories, and dining facilities for schools in Ghana.

“My government will build more infrastructure like classroom blocks, dormitories, and dining facilities for the schools. My government will also invest in teacher training and professional development, enhancing curriculum relevance and alignment with workforce needs

The programme is a cornerstone of our government’s commitment to expanding access to quality education for all Ghanaian youth. It is probably one of the most successful social intervention programmes ever implemented in Ghana.

It has dramatically boosted student enrollment in senior high schools across the country. What is more important, the highest enrollments are coming from the poorest regions of Ghana, like the five northern regions

Furthermore, Ghana has now attained gender parity in senior high-school education as more girls than boys have accessed the programme. Also, the increase in enrollment has not resulted in a reduction in quality

In fact, the performance of the students in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination last year shows that the free SHS beneficiaries attained the best results since 2014. The policy has therefore been a resounding success. That does not mean it is without problems. There is more to be done to improve it,” Mr Bawumia said.