Prof. Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, the former Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, emphasized the necessity for the government to reassess the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) program.
He believes that after more than seven years of implementation, a review is essential to address the program’s challenges and enhance Ghana’s education sector.
During an interview on Joynews, the renowned surgeon expressed his view that the educational system is flawed, indicating that a review or modification of certain aspects of the Free SHS program may be necessary to overcome these challenges.
In response to a question about the policy’s challenges, particularly its provision of free education to students in public secondary and technical schools, Prof. Frimpong-Boateng acknowledged the existence of challenges and stressed the importance of addressing them through a review process.
He suggested that it is sensible to review activities periodically, rather than assuming that the initial approach remains the best over time.
He specifically mentioned issues such as feeding as aspects that might need review.
The promise made by former President John Dramani Mahama, the National Democratic Congress flagbearer, to review the Free SHS policy if he regains power has sparked criticism from the ruling New Patriotic Party.
The government has interpreted this promise as a potential move to cancel the flagship program of the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo-led government.
Notwithstanding the criticism, the government acknowledges the need for a review of the policy, which has faced challenges such as inadequate feeding programs and insufficient infrastructure.
