In a bold move towards educational inclusivity, the President of Ghana, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, has extended the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy to 60 handpicked private schools, showcasing his unwavering commitment to equal access to quality education for all.
This latest development signals a significant expansion of the Free SHS initiative first initiated during the Akufo-Addo administration in 2017.
The decision to include private educational institutions in this progressive policy framework is expected to not only alleviate overcrowding in public schools but also enhance educational accessibility and reduce regional educational disparities at the secondary level.
This strategic policy adjustment is aimed at bridging the gap between public and private education sectors, ensuring that every Ghanaian student can benefit from free and high-quality senior high school education, irrespective of the school they attend.
The Ghana National Council of Private Schools (GNACOPS) has commended this move, hailing it as a pivotal stride towards educational equity. The Council emphasized the significant role private schools have played in Ghana’s educational landscape, often achieving remarkable academic results despite minimal government assistance.
“President Mahama’s decision to incorporate private schools into the Free SHS policy demonstrates his recognition of the contributions of private educational partners in national progress,” noted GNACOPS.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to verify the list of eligible private SHSs through credible channels such as the Ministry of Education, the Ghana Education Service (GES), and GNACOPS platforms.
The selection of these 60 private schools was reportedly based on criteria such as infrastructure readiness, teacher capacity, and regional representation to ensure an equitable distribution.
This development fulfills a key electoral promise made by former NDC flagbearer, John Mahama, during the 2024 general elections.
In his campaign address at the Ghana National Association of Private Schools (GNAPS) event themed “The 2024 Elections: GNAPS Manifesto,” Mahama pledged to expand the scope of the Free SHS policy to incorporate eligible private schools.
Recognizing the pivotal role played by private educational institutions in Ghana, Mahama highlighted their robust infrastructure, skilled personnel, and extensive community service.
He argued that the inclusion of private schools in the Free SHS program will not only help distribute financial burdens evenly but also enhance service quality by fostering healthy competition and promoting innovation among schools.
Looking beyond secondary education, President Mahama has committed to a comprehensive reform of Ghana’s education system from primary to tertiary levels.
He stressed the importance of engaging all stakeholders – from teachers and school administrators to parents and NGOs – in reimagining a more efficient, fair, and pragmatic educational framework.
By Prince Ahenkorah
