President-elect John Dramani Mahama has reassured Ghanaians of his unwavering commitment to the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy, dismissing claims that his administration would dismantle it. Speaking in an interview with Voice of America (VOA), Mahama described these allegations, which were largely circulated by New Patriotic Party (NPP) officials during the campaign period, as baseless political propaganda.
“Free SHS has come to stay, and it is not going anywhere,” Mahama declared firmly. “Nobody is going to scrap Free SHS. What was said was political talk and gimmickry. We are going to maintain it. What we are going to do is get dedicated funding for it.”
The Free SHS programme, introduced in 2017 under the Akufo-Addo administration, was designed to provide free tuition, boarding, and meals for students in public senior high schools. Since its inception, the programme has become a lifeline for many Ghanaians, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. By removing financial barriers, the policy has significantly increased access to secondary education, enabling hundreds of thousands of students to continue their studies.
Despite its success in expanding access to education, the programme has faced notable challenges. Issues such as overcrowded classrooms, insufficient infrastructure, delays in the release of funds, and strained resources have affected the quality of education provided under the scheme. Critics have argued that while the initiative is commendable, its implementation needs urgent refinement to maximize its impact.
Mahama’s stance is clear: the programme is here to stay. However, his administration intends to address its challenges by introducing measures that ensure efficiency and sustainability. His vision involves the establishment of a reliable and dedicated funding mechanism, which will alleviate the financial constraints that have hindered the programme’s smooth operation. In doing so, Mahama aims to improve the quality of education provided under the Free SHS policy, ensuring that students not only have access but also receive an education that meets global standards.
Education was a central pillar of Mahama’s campaign, resonating with many Ghanaians who see the value of an inclusive and equitable system. His decisive victory in the December 7 elections underscores the public’s confidence in his ability to address pressing national issues. The Electoral Commission declared Mahama the winner with 6,328,397 votes, representing 56.55% of the total valid votes cast. His closest competitor, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the NPP, garnered 4,657,304 votes, translating to 41.61%.
Mahama’s victory not only marks his return to the presidency but also highlights the electorate’s endorsement of his vision for a better Ghana. Having previously served as president from 2012 to 2017, Mahama brings experience and a renewed focus on addressing critical areas such as education, healthcare, and economic recovery.
The Free SHS policy became a highly contentious topic during the election campaign. NPP officials frequently warned that Mahama would abolish the programme if elected, fueling anxiety among parents and students who rely on it. However, Mahama consistently refuted these claims, describing them as deliberate attempts to mislead the public. His reassurance that the policy would not be scrapped was a central theme of his campaign, helping to build trust among voters.
By pledging to maintain and improve the Free SHS policy, Mahama has positioned himself as a leader who values education as a cornerstone of national development. His approach reflects a broader vision of creating opportunities for every Ghanaian child, regardless of their economic background.
The President-elect has promised to work closely with stakeholders in the education sector to review and refine the programme. This collaborative approach will involve educators, policymakers, civil society organizations, and parents, ensuring that the revised implementation plan is both practical and effective. Mahama’s commitment to dialogue and consensus-building underscores his belief in shared responsibility for the success of national policies.
The Free SHS programme has had a transformative impact on Ghana’s educational landscape. For many families, it represents a lifeline, offering their children opportunities that were previously unattainable due to financial constraints. By sustaining the programme, Mahama reaffirms his commitment to social equity and the empowerment of future generations.
However, maintaining the policy is only part of the equation. Mahama recognizes the importance of addressing systemic challenges to enhance its effectiveness. Overcrowding in classrooms, for instance, has been a significant issue, with some schools struggling to accommodate the influx of students. The lack of adequate infrastructure, such as classrooms, dormitories, and teaching materials, has also hindered the programme’s success.
Mahama’s administration plans to prioritize investments in education infrastructure to address these shortcomings. Additionally, the timely release of funds to schools will be a key focus, ensuring that administrators have the resources needed to provide quality education. By tackling these challenges head-on, Mahama aims to create a more robust and efficient system that benefits all stakeholders.
His victory signals a renewed mandate to prioritize education as a driver of national progress. Ghanaians are hopeful that his administration will deliver on its promises, building a foundation for a more inclusive and prosperous society. Beyond education, Mahama’s broader agenda includes economic restoration, combating corruption, and strengthening social programmes such as healthcare.
As Mahama prepares to assume office, his commitment to the Free SHS policy serves as a testament to his belief in the transformative power of education. It is a declaration of hope for students, parents, and educators, reaffirming that no child should be left behind in Ghana’s quest for development.
Education remains a vital tool for breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering individuals to contribute meaningfully to society. By upholding and enhancing the Free SHS policy, Mahama demonstrates his dedication to building a brighter future for Ghana, one where every child has the opportunity to succeed.
