Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has firmly disputed claims by New Patriotic Party flagbearer Dr Mahamudu Bawumia that Ghana's Free Senior High School programme is struggling. Iddrisu maintained that the National Democratic Congress government has consistently channelled the required resources into the policy and that the programme remains on solid footing. He argued that the NDC government has provided the necessary resources to keep the Free SHS policy on track.
The minister took particular issue with Bawumia's comments on student feeding arrangements, suggesting the NPP leader's picture of the programme did not match what was actually happening across the country's schools. Iddrisu said Bawumia may have been misinformed about what is happening on the ground. He stopped short of a confrontation, instead framing his remarks as a call for Bawumia to revisit his position once presented with accurate information.
Iddrisu was emphatic that the government has no intention of allowing the programme to falter, stressing that every student enrolled under Free SHS should be able to complete their education with adequate support in place. His remarks signal the NDC's intent to defend its stewardship of the policy as political competition around Ghana's education agenda intensifies ahead of the next electoral cycle.
The Free SHS programme, originally launched under the previous NPP administration, has remained a flashpoint between the two parties, with both sides keen to claim credit for its successes and lay blame for any shortcomings. The programme has been a major policy initiative in Ghana's education sector, aiming to increase access to secondary education.
Iddrisu's response to Bawumia's claims highlights the ongoing debate about the effectiveness of the Free SHS programme. The programme has faced challenges, including concerns about infrastructure and resources, but the government has maintained that it is committed to its success. The NDC government has made efforts to improve the programme, including increasing funding and implementing new initiatives.
The dispute between Iddrisu and Bawumia reflects the broader political tensions between the NDC and NPP parties in Ghana. The two parties have had a long-standing rivalry, with each side seeking to promote its own policies and programmes. The Free SHS programme has been a key area of contention, with both parties seeking to claim ownership and credit for its successes.
The issue has significant implications for Ghana's education sector, which has faced numerous challenges in recent years. The government's commitment to the Free SHS programme will be closely watched by stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and students. The programme's success will depend on the government's ability to address the challenges it faces and ensure that students receive a quality education.
Key points
- The Free SHS programme has been a major policy initiative in Ghana's education sector, aiming to increase access to secondary education.
- The programme has faced challenges, including concerns about infrastructure and resources.
- The dispute between Iddrisu and Bawumia reflects the broader political tensions between the NDC and NPP parties in Ghana.
