“Free SHS is Here to Stay!” – Mahama Debunks Abolition Claims
President-elect pledges to enhance Ghana’s flagship education programme with dedicated funding and improved implementation
- Mahama dismisses claims of abolishing the policy as mere propaganda
- Mahama plans to introduce dedicated funding to address financial challenges
- Mahama vows to improve infrastructure, reduce overcrowding, and enhance efficiency
President-elect John Dramani Mahama has assured Ghanaians of his unwavering commitment to the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy, firmly rejecting allegations that his administration intends to scrap the initiative.
In an interview with Voice of America (VOA), Mahama dismissed the claims, attributing them to politically charged propaganda by New Patriotic Party (NPP) officials during the election campaign.
“Free SHS has come to stay, and it’s not going anywhere,” Mahama emphasized. “Nobody is going to scrap it. Those claims were political talk and gimmickry. Our focus will be on securing dedicated funding to sustain and improve it.”
The Free SHS programme, introduced in 2017 by the Akufo-Addo administration, has provided free tuition, meals, and boarding for public senior high school students, enabling access to education for thousands of underprivileged youth. Despite its success, the policy has grappled with challenges such as overcrowding, infrastructure deficits, and delayed funding, impacting its overall quality.
Mahama has pledged to address these challenges while preserving the programme’s benefits. His vision includes establishing a reliable funding mechanism to enhance efficiency and maintain equitable access to quality education.
The Free SHS policy was a pivotal issue in the recent elections, with the NPP warning of its potential abolition under Mahama. However, Mahama’s firm stance has reassured many, particularly parents and students, of the programme’s continuation under his leadership.
In the December 7 elections, Mahama secured a decisive victory, garnering 6,328,397 votes (56.55%) against Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the NPP, who received 4,657,304 votes (41.61%). His return to the presidency signals a renewed focus on economic restoration, anti-corruption efforts, and enhancing key social programmes, including education and healthcare.
Mahama has vowed to collaborate with education stakeholders to refine and sustain the Free SHS policy, ensuring its long-term success and impact.
