Alexander Roosevelt, Member of Parliament for Central Tongu, has raised concerns over Ghana’s Free Senior High School (SHS) policy despite a reported investment of over 9 billion Ghana Cedis since its inception.
During the 2024 Mid-Year Budget Review presentation, Ghana’s Finance Minister highlighted the substantial investment of over 9 billion Ghana Cedis in the Free SHS initiative, demonstrating the government’s commitment to education.
However, Roosevelt argued that this investment has yet to translate into meaningful improvements in the conditions of senior high schools across the country. He cited statistics showing that a significant number of schools still lack basic facilities and resources, which hampers the quality of education.
In an interview with Citi News, Roosevelt lamented the persisting challenges in school dormitories, describing them as “filthy and congested.” He pointed out specific issues such as lack of proper sanitation facilities, overcrowding, and poor maintenance. He criticized the government’s policy management, questioning the absence of visible benefits despite the significant financial infusion.
“If you pump money into something, the value must be evident. But with the Free SHS, we can’t see the value,” Roosevelt remarked, highlighting ongoing issues such as poor infrastructure and sanitation.
Roosevelt’s critique underscores broader concerns about the implementation and outcomes of the Free SHS policy. Introduced to increase access to secondary education, it faces scrutiny over its operational effectiveness and impact on educational quality.
The Free SHS policy debate remains a dynamic and engaging topic in Ghana’s educational discourse. Policymakers and stakeholders are actively assessing its effectiveness in achieving its intended goals amidst ongoing challenges, inviting everyone to participate in shaping the future of education in Ghana.
