By The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has acknowledged the success of the government’s Free Senior High School (SHS) policy while also recognizing the need for further enhancements.
He has reiterated his commitment to ensuring the policy’s sustainability, emphasizing its security under his leadership.
Although the Free SHS policy has seen successes, it has also faced challenges, with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, pledging to review it if elected.
In an interview with Africa Watch Magazine, the Vice President stated, “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.”
“I am committed to the Free SHS policy, and I believe it would be safe and sustainable in my hands,” Dr Bawumia noted.
He committed to constructing additional infrastructure, including classroom blocks, dormitories, and dining facilities, for schools across 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,” he promised.
Dr. Bawumia emphasized that the Free SHS policy has led to a significant rise in student enrollment in Senior High Schools.
“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.”
