Kumasi, Ghana – President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has responded to calls for the Free Senior High School (FSHS) policy to be targeted, suggesting that individuals who can afford private school fees should send their wards to private institutions. This comes after concerns were raised about the financial strain the policy places on the national budget.
Addressing the 2024/2025 Annual General Conference of the Ghana Bar Association in Kumasi, President Akufo-Addo defended the policy, stating that public schools funded by taxpayers must remain free for all, especially those who would otherwise be unable to afford secondary education.
The President’s comments come after the Ghana Bar Association’s President, Yaw Acheampong Boafo, urged the government to reconsider the Free SHS policy, proposing that affluent families pay fees to allow more resources to be directed towards less privileged students.
President Akufo-Addo emphasized that the policy has doubled the number of pupils accessing secondary education, with over 5.7 million persons benefiting since its inception. He argued that the impact of this development will far outweigh the concerns of privileged parents who can afford to pay for their wards’ education.
The President’s stance on the Free SHS policy has sparked debate, with some arguing that it is a necessary investment in the country’s future, while others believe it is unsustainable and should be targeted towards those who need it most.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
