Free SHS: A Balancing Act Between Access and Quality

Story by: ABEL KWAME ASIEDU APPAU

Over the past decades, Ghana has implemented numerous educational policies to improve access and participation. From the Accelerated Development Plan of 1951 to the Education Act of 1961, and subsequent reforms, the country has consistently aimed to enhance its educational system. Recent initiatives such as the Capitation Grant, School Feeding Programme, and various reforms have contributed to this goal. However, the most significant and transformative policy in recent times is the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, introduced in September 2017.

Expanding Access to Education
The Free SHS policy aims to make secondary education accessible to all Ghanaian children, regardless of their economic background. By eliminating tuition fees, the policy has provided unprecedented opportunities for students across the nation. As Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum recently highlighted, “government has made positive strides in increasing access to education,” with over 1.2 million students enrolled in the Free SHS program for the 2023/2024 academic year. This increase in participation represents a significant step towards building a knowledge-based economy.
Undoubtedly, the educational landscape in Ghana has been transformed by the Free SHS policy. Previously, many students from underprivileged backgrounds faced significant challenges in continuing their education beyond junior high school due to financial constraints. The policy has successfully opened doors for these students, contributing to increased enrollment and reduced dropout rates.

Challenges and Criticisms
Despite its successes, the Free SHS policy faces several challenges. Associate Professor of Finance at Andrews University, William Preprah, voiced concerns about the current implementation of the policy. Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express, he stated that the program is set to encounter grave challenges due to the problematic approach taken by the government from the onset.
One of the main concerns is overcrowding in schools. The surge in enrollment has outpaced the infrastructure capacity of many institutions, leading to overcrowded classrooms and inadequate facilities. This situation strains resources and affects the quality of education, as teachers struggle to manage large classes with limited teaching materials.

Moreover, there are concerns about the sustainability of the policy. Critics argue that the financial burden on the government is significant and may become unsustainable over time. The national budget has been under intense pressure due to recurrent costs associated with providing free education, including textbooks, feeding, and boarding facilities. Consequently, some stakeholders have called for a review of the policy to ensure its sustainability without compromising educational quality.

Quality of Education
Maintaining the quality of education amidst increased enrollment is another major challenge. While the policy has succeeded in getting more students into schools, there are concerns about whether these students are receiving a quality education. Reports suggest that the rapid increase in student numbers has not been matched with a corresponding increase in teaching staff, resources, or infrastructure. This disparity has raised questions about the effectiveness of the policy in delivering the quality education necessary for students’ future prospects.

Stakeholder Input and Policy Making
The formulation and implementation of the Free SHS policy have also faced scrutiny regarding stakeholder participation. Effective policy-making typically involves the input of various stakeholders, including educators, parents, and policy experts. However, there have been criticisms that the policy was implemented without adequate consultation and involvement of key stakeholders, leading to gaps in its execution. Engaging stakeholders is crucial for identifying potential challenges and devising strategies to address them, thereby enhancing the policy’s effectiveness and sustainability.

Calls for Policy Review
Given the challenges and criticisms, there is a growing consensus among experts and stakeholders for a comprehensive review of the Free SHS policy. Richard Kovey Kwashie, Convener of the Commercialization of Education (CAPCOE), advocates for an in-depth review to address issues of sustainability, education quality, and stakeholder involvement. Some propose a more targeted approach, focusing on the most disadvantaged students to reduce government expenditure while still achieving universal education. Others argue for improving infrastructure and resources to match the increased enrollment and maintain high-quality education.

Archbishop for Cape Coast, Most Rev. Palmer-Buckle re-echoed the Free SHS policy has provided significant relief to parents, but the government needs to reconsider and review it to remove all bottlenecks.

In conclusion, the Free SHS policy in Ghana represents a significant step towards making education accessible to all. It has opened doors for millions of students who otherwise might not have had the opportunity to pursue secondary education. However, the challenges it faces are substantial and require a strategic approach to ensure its long-term success. As Ghana continues to navigate the complexities of this policy, a balanced focus on access, quality, and sustainability will be essential. Engaging all stakeholders in this process will be critical to refining the policy and achieving the broader goal of educational equity and excellence in Ghana.