Akufo-Addo Expresses Pride In Sustaining Free SHS Amid Challenges | Education

President Akufo-Addo recently highlighted his pride in the sustained success of the Free Senior High School (FSHS) policy, a significant educational reform introduced by his administration in 2017.

Speaking at Prempeh College’s 75th Anniversary celebration in Kumasi, he acknowledged the challenges faced by the program due to global economic pressures but emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to providing free secondary education to all Ghanaian youth.

“I’m proud that, despite the COVID-19 pandemic and other hurdles, we have upheld and successfully implemented the Free SHS policy,” President Akufo-Addo said.

He reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to ensuring every Ghanaian child has access to quality education.

“We remain steadfast in our commitment to free education for all Ghanaian students and will continue our efforts to make quality education accessible across the country,” he added.

Launched in 2017, the Free SHS policy has aimed to make education accessible to all and has so far benefitted over 5.7 million Ghanaian students.

The policy has garnered widespread praise for its impact on educational access, significantly increasing the number of students attending secondary school.

However, the policy has faced challenges, such as funding issues, infrastructure shortages, and concerns over educational quality.

President Akufo-Addo addressed these challenges, underscoring his administration’s extensive investment in the education sector.

“No government has invested as much in education as we have,” he said, citing major investments in infrastructure and resources to support students and teachers alike.

Looking forward, the President promised that his government would continue working to improve education quality.

He announced plans for new initiatives to further support students and teachers, signalling a long-term vision for strengthening Ghana’s educational system.

The ongoing success of the Free SHS policy is expected to continue benefiting the education sector and play a crucial role in advancing human development across Ghana.