Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has reiterated his commitment to a comprehensive review of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy within the first 100 days of assuming office.
That is if he emerges victorious in the 2024 presidential election.
During his Building Ghana Tour in Agona Asafo, Mahama acknowledged the positive aspects of the Free SHS policy but stressed the importance of a thorough review to enhance its benefits for both students and parents.
He emphasized the need for a holistic evaluation of the policy’s implementation to address challenges and improve overall efficiency.
Mahama stated, “When you implement a policy, you must take stock after a while to see whether you are achieving your target.”
“When we win power in 2024, we will have a forum to review the education sector, and we will invite teachers, parents, educationists, and students, and then we will review the Free SHS policy.”
Mahama expressed the intention to address issues such as the feeding of students and the rising costs associated with the education system.
He acknowledged that while the Free SHS policy is commendable, there is a need for the government to implement measures that ensure affordability.
He shared a personal example, saying, “My nephew has been placed under Free SHS, but we are spending a lot of money to buy things on his prospectus because the government has mismanaged the economy, so everything has gone up.”
Mahama reassured the public that, if elected, his administration would undertake a comprehensive review of the Free SHS policy within the first 100 days. The objective is to optimize its implementation, ensuring that teachers, parents, and students can fully enjoy the intended benefits of the policy.