President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has reflected on the significant achievements in the educational sector, particularly through the implementation of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy.
In his remarks, the President confidently stated that the legacy of his government’s Free SHS initiative will be permanently etched in the nation’s history.
He emphasized the transformative actions taken under the policy, noting that it has made a lasting impact on the future of Ghana’s youth.
President Akufo-Addo highlighted how the initiative has increased access to secondary education, enabling countless students to pursue their educational aspirations without financial barriers. He expressed pride in the policy’s success, underscoring its role in shaping the country’s future leaders and contributing to the overall development of the nation.
Delivering his final State of the Nation Address in Parliament on January 3, President Akufo-Addo said, “We have transformed education and there can never be reversal that 5.7 million people have gained access to education. No amount of shouts will displace data, it will not happen, the data is there. With Record-breaking performance across all subjects, it has also enhanced education.”
The Free SHS Policy
Introduced in 2017 under the Akufo-Addo administration, the Free SHS programme provides free tuition, boarding, and meals for students in public senior high schools.
It has enabled thousands of Ghanaian youth, especially from underprivileged backgrounds, to access secondary education.
However, the policy has faced challenges, including overcrowded classrooms, inadequate infrastructure, and delayed release of funds, which have affected its quality and implementation.