Child Rights International has issued a stern warning against proposals to transfer the cost of feeding students under the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy to parents. In a statement released on January 11, 2025, the organization emphasized the importance of preserving the core principles of the Free SHS program, describing it as a groundbreaking initiative that has dramatically improved access to education in Ghana since its introduction in 2017.
The organization categorically opposed suggestions that parents should bear the responsibility of providing food and other essential supplies for their children enrolled in senior high schools, warning that such measures would undermine the policy’s objectives.
The Free SHS program was designed to eliminate financial barriers to secondary education, particularly for students from low-income families. By covering tuition fees, feeding, accommodation, and other related costs, the policy has served as a major social intervention that ensures inclusivity for all Ghanaian children. Since its inception, the program has enabled millions of students, especially those in rural and underserved areas, to gain access to quality education. Many families, previously unable to afford the high costs of secondary education, have benefited from this initiative, which has contributed to increased enrollment rates, reduced school dropout rates, and improved literacy levels nationwide.
Child Rights International, in its statement, underscored that the Free SHS program was conceived as a means to bridge the gap in educational access and provide equal opportunities for all children regardless of their socio-economic background. The organization pointed out that shifting the cost of feeding to parents would defeat the purpose of the policy and reintroduce financial burdens that many families cannot bear. It argued that such proposals, if implemented, could disproportionately affect vulnerable children, leading to a resurgence of inequality in education access.
The Free SHS policy has been celebrated for its transformative impact on Ghana’s education system. It has opened doors for students from deprived communities, ensuring they receive the same opportunities as their peers from more affluent backgrounds. For many rural families, where the cost of education was previously prohibitive, the program has been a lifeline, helping their children secure a brighter future. The policy’s success is evident in the significant strides made in enrollment figures and literacy rates across the country.
However, the program has not been without its challenges. Over the years, it has faced criticism over issues such as overcrowded classrooms, delays in the disbursement of funds, and logistical challenges, particularly in the area of feeding. The feeding component of the program has often been the subject of public scrutiny, with reports of inadequate food supplies and insufficient budgets. These issues have fueled debates about the long-term sustainability of the program, with some stakeholders calling for reforms to address the bottlenecks.
Child Rights International acknowledged these challenges but maintained that any reforms must prioritize the program’s foundational goals of accessibility and inclusivity. The organization argued that transferring the cost of feeding to parents would not solve the program’s logistical issues but rather exacerbate the financial strain on families, particularly those already struggling to make ends meet. It reiterated that the Free SHS policy was a commitment by the government to invest in the nation’s youth and ensure that no child is left behind in accessing education.
The organization called on policymakers to explore alternative solutions to address the program’s challenges without compromising its core objectives. Suggestions included increasing budget allocations for the Free SHS program, enhancing efficiency in resource management, and strengthening oversight mechanisms to ensure that funds are utilized effectively. Child Rights International emphasized that the government must uphold its responsibility to provide comprehensive support for students, including feeding, as part of its commitment to building an equitable and progressive education system.
Since its introduction, the Free SHS program has had a profound impact on Ghana’s socio-economic landscape. It has not only improved educational outcomes but also contributed to poverty alleviation by reducing the financial burden on families. By removing the barriers to secondary education, the policy has empowered countless students to pursue their dreams and aspirations, creating a more skilled and knowledgeable workforce for the nation.
Child Rights International warned that altering the policy to shift feeding costs to parents would risk reversing these gains. The organization expressed concern that such a move could lead to increased dropout rates, particularly among students from low-income families who rely on the program’s comprehensive support. It stressed that education is a fundamental right, and the government must ensure that all children have equal access to learning opportunities without financial hindrances.
The statement also highlighted the broader implications of the Free SHS program for national development. By investing in education, the government is laying the foundation for sustainable growth and development. The program has been instrumental in fostering social mobility, reducing inequality, and promoting inclusive growth. Child Rights International urged stakeholders to recognize the program’s long-term benefits and work collaboratively to strengthen its implementation.
As public discourse around the sustainability of the Free SHS program continues, Child Rights International’s statement serves as a reminder of the policy’s original intent and the need to safeguard its principles. The organization called on all stakeholders, including policymakers, educators, and civil society groups, to support efforts to improve the program without undermining its accessibility. It reiterated its commitment to advocating for the rights of children and ensuring that education remains a priority on the national agenda.
The Free SHS program represents a significant milestone in Ghana’s education sector, and its success depends on the collective efforts of all stakeholders. Child Rights International’s strong opposition to proposals that shift feeding costs to parents underscores the importance of maintaining the program’s integrity and ensuring that it continues to serve as a beacon of hope for Ghanaian children. As discussions on the future of the policy unfold, it is crucial to remember the transformative impact it has had on countless lives and the potential it holds for shaping a brighter future for the nation.
