Free SHS has come to stay; I’ll ensure it’s well funded – Mahama
John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has assured Ghanaians that the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy will continue under his administration, with dedicated funding to ensure its sustainability.
Addressing concerns over the policy during a meeting with Christian leaders in Kumasi on Monday, November 11, Mahama dismissed claims that he would cancel Free SHS if elected, calling such allegations a “political gimmick” designed to mislead the public.
“Free SHS has come to stay,” Mahama affirmed, highlighting that while the program has increased access to education, securing sustainable funding is essential to guarantee its future.
“We must ensure it’s well-funded to improve its quality and keep it going.”
Mahama’s remarks reflect the NDC’s commitment to the Free SHS policy, though with a focus on securing consistent funding to address the programme’s challenges.
This stance comes after both the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the NDC reaffirmed their support for the policy, albeit with differing views on how best to enhance its quality and implementation.
In addition to guaranteeing Free SHS funding, Mahama emphasized the importance of quality education, noting that an adequately funded programme would enhance educational outcomes for Ghanaian students.
He assured Ghanaians that under his leadership, Free SHS would not only remain but would be strengthened to meet the needs of future generations.