GH₵345m Required to Roll Out Free Tertiary Tuition Policy – Haruna Iddrisu
Minister-Designate outlines funding needs and promises fairness in implementing NDC’s flagship education policy
- GH₵345 million is required to implement free tuition for first-year tertiary students.
- Universities will receive funds directly to cover tuition and refund students who have already paid
- Parents willing to pay fees can opt to do so under the framework introduced by the NDC
The Minister-Designate for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has disclosed that an estimated GH₵345 million will be necessary to implement the government’s free tuition policy for first-year tertiary students.
Speaking before the Appointments Committee in Parliament on January 20, 2025, the Tamale South MP highlighted the policy’s transformative potential to make tertiary education more accessible nationwide.
The allocated funds will cover tuition fees for incoming students at tertiary institutions, aiming to promote equitable access to higher education. Haruna Iddrisu assured that the government would channel these funds directly to the universities involved, ensuring smooth execution of the initiative.
Additionally, the policy includes provisions for reimbursing students who have already paid tuition, guaranteeing fairness during its rollout.
“The country will require about GH₵345 million to support students entering tertiary institutions. This amount will be provided to the affected universities, enabling them to make refunds where necessary,” he stated.
He also noted the policy’s flexibility, allowing parents who wish to pay fees to do so, aligning with the framework introduced by the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
This announcement follows the NDC’s campaign promise to implement free tertiary tuition to alleviate financial pressures on students and families while broadening access to education. Haruna Iddrisu reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the policy’s successful implementation if approved.
