Education is often seen as the key to national development, and Ghana’s Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy was introduced to make secondary education accessible to all. Launched in 2017, the policy eliminated school fees for public SHS students, increasing enrollment and giving more young Ghanaians a chance to continue their education.
However, while Free SHS has expanded access, it has also faced significant challenges. The key question remains: is Free SHS truly solving Ghana’s education problems, or is it creating new ones?
What Has Free SHS Achieved?
1. Increased Enrollment
Before Free SHS, many students could not afford secondary education due to high school fees. The policy has dramatically increased the number of students in SHS, ensuring that no child is denied education because of financial constraints.
2. Reduced Financial Burden on Families
Many parents, especially those from low-income backgrounds, have benefited from the policy. They no longer have to struggle to pay school fees, which allows them to use their limited resources for other essential needs.
3. Higher Literacy and Educational Attainment
With more students completing SHS, Ghana’s literacy rate and overall educational qualifications are improving. This could eventually lead to a more educated workforce, boosting economic growth.
The Major Challenges of Free SHS
While the policy has made education more accessible, it has also exposed weaknesses in Ghana’s education system.
1. Overcrowding and Infrastructure Deficits
The surge in student enrollment has put immense pressure on school facilities. Many schools lack enough classrooms, dormitories, and dining halls, forcing students to study in overcrowded conditions. Some schools run a “double-track” system, where students attend in shifts to accommodate the numbers, but this has led to reduced contact hours and learning difficulties.
2. Decline in Teaching and Learning Quality
With larger class sizes, teachers struggle to provide individual attention to students. Many schools also lack adequate teaching materials, textbooks, and science lab equipment, making it difficult to maintain high academic standards.
3. Inconsistent and Delayed Funding
The government’s ability to sustain Free SHS financially has been a major concern. There have been reports of delays in releasing funds for feeding, textbooks, and other essentials, affecting the smooth running of schools. Some schools face food shortages, forcing students to eat substandard meals.
4. Limited Attention to Technical and Vocational Education
The Free SHS policy primarily focuses on traditional academic education, neglecting technical and vocational training. Many students graduate without practical skills that match job market demands, contributing to youth unemployment.
5. Struggles with University Preparedness
With the increased number of SHS graduates, universities are now overwhelmed with applications. Additionally, concerns have been raised about whether students are leaving SHS with the necessary critical thinking and analytical skills needed for higher education and the job market.
Is Free SHS the Solution or Part of the Problem?
While Free SHS has undoubtedly made education more accessible, access alone does not guarantee quality. The policy has exposed serious structural weaknesses in Ghana’s education system. If Free SHS is to truly solve Ghana’s education problems, reforms are needed to:
- Expand Infrastructure: More investment in school buildings, libraries, and science labs is crucial.
- Improve Teacher Training and Support: Teachers need better resources, manageable class sizes, and incentives to maintain high teaching standards.
- Ensure Sustainable Funding: The government must develop a reliable funding strategy to prevent delays in payments that affect school operations.
- Strengthen Technical and Vocational Education: Not all students need to pursue academic university paths. More emphasis on practical skills training can help reduce unemployment.
Free SHS has made secondary education accessible to many, but accessibility alone is not enough. Without improvements in quality, infrastructure, and funding, the policy risks producing graduates who are not well-prepared for higher education or the job market.
Ghana must focus not just on getting students into schools but also on ensuring they receive a high-quality education that equips them for the future.
