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Finance Minister-designate Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has assured Ghanaians of the Mahama-led administration’s commitment to maintaining and improving the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy introduced under the Akufo-Addo government.
Speaking during his vetting by the Appointments Committee of Parliament on January 13, 2025, Dr. Forson affirmed President Mahama’s campaign promise to uphold the policy, emphasizing its importance for Ghana’s educational system and the broader vision of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
“My party’s position on Free SHS has been well articulated by H.E. President [John Dramani Mahama]. We do not intend to cancel the Free SHS. President Mahama has said the Free SHS has come to stay,” Dr. Forson stated.
He added, “The President of the Republic of Ghana has made the statement, and as a minister he has appointed, I am fully aligned. You have assurance from the highest level of the government to preserve and strengthen the policy.”
The Free SHS policy, launched by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government in 2017, provides free tuition for senior high school students across the country. While it has significantly increased enrollment, the policy has faced challenges, including funding gaps and infrastructure constraints.
President Mahama’s 2024 campaign pledge focused on improving the policy by addressing these challenges, ensuring its sustainability, and enhancing the quality of education delivered under the initiative.
