Haruna Iddrisu Calls for Accurate Validation of Free SHS Data

Haruna Iddrisu, the Minister of Education, has called for a comprehensive validation of data regarding the beneficiaries of Ghana’s Free Senior High School (Free SHS) programme.

During his first official visit to the Ministry on January 22, 2025, after being sworn in by President John Dramani Mahama, Iddrisu stressed the importance of obtaining accurate data to shape future educational policies and reforms.

“The statistical validity of Free SHS beneficiaries is one of the first major issues we must address,” he stated, highlighting discrepancies between reported numbers. His research indicates that approximately 3.9 million students have benefitted from the programme, which contrasts with the higher figure of 5.1 million reported in official sources, including parliamentary reports.

“I’m not claiming my numbers are definitive, but the 5.1 million figure seems misleading. After reviewing data from 2017 to 2023, I believe the true number of beneficiaries is no more than 3.9 million,” Iddrisu clarified, urging for a thorough validation of these figures.

His call for data accuracy is not aimed at undermining existing records but at establishing a reliable foundation for informed policy decisions. Additionally, Iddrisu revealed plans to convene a National Education Conference to evaluate the state of education in Ghana and develop reforms, with data validation being a critical starting point.

The Minister’s emphasis on data integrity demonstrates his commitment to evidence-based policymaking, as Ghana looks to strengthen its education sector moving forward.