The 'No-fees-stress' policy, launched by President John Dramani Mahama on July 4, 2025, has significantly boosted access to tertiary education in Ghana. Dr. Gifty Seiwaa Nyarko, Vice Principal of the SDA College of Education in Koforidua, stated that the college recorded 470 beneficiaries under the policy during the 2025/2026 academic year. These beneficiaries were all first-year students, comprising 160 males and 310 females.
The high patronage of the policy has been attributed to students' understanding of the importance of taking advantage of available government interventions to pursue higher education. Dr. Nyarko expressed gratitude to the government for providing financial relief to students, allowing them to focus on their studies without the burden of academic user fees. She advised beneficiaries to use the money provided by their parents judiciously, for things that can support their stay on campus and enhance their studies.
Ms. Esther Ansah, a first-year Bachelor of Education student, noted that the policy had made it possible for her to pursue her dream career in tertiary education without financial difficulty. She stated that if the policy had not been introduced, she would not have been able to afford the fees at the initial stage, which would have disrupted her career. The policy covers academic user fees for all first-year students in public tertiary institutions.
Mr. Samuel Okai Ntiri, a beneficiary pursuing Primary Education, also appreciated the policy, stating that it had alleviated the financial burden on him and his family. Although some money had been provided by his family for his upkeep, it would not have been enough if he had to pay academic user fees. The policy has been instrumental in supporting students from diverse backgrounds to access tertiary education.
The 'No-fees-stress' policy is part of the government's efforts to increase enrollment in public tertiary institutions. Under the policy, continuing students at Levels 200, 300, and 400 may access the Student Loan Plus or the regular Students Loan Trust Fund (SLTF) loan scheme for their financial support. This initiative aims to promote equal access to education and reduce financial barriers for students.
Dr. Nyarko emphasized the importance of the policy in promoting access to tertiary education, particularly for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. She encouraged beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunity and to use the resources provided to support their academic pursuits. The SDA College of Education has witnessed a significant increase in enrollment since the introduction of the policy.
The 'No-fees-stress' policy has been well-received by students and stakeholders in the education sector. As the policy continues to be implemented, it is expected to have a positive impact on the country's education landscape. Key stakeholders will be monitoring the policy's effectiveness and making necessary adjustments to ensure its success.
Key points
- 470 students at SDA College of Education benefited from the 'No-fees-stress' policy during the 2025/2026 academic year.
- The policy covers academic user fees for all first-year students in public tertiary institutions.
- President John Dramani Mahama launched the 'No-fees-stress' policy on July 4, 2025.
