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The National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) has urged Parliament to suspend the Free Senior High School (SHS) Bill ahead of its scheduled presentation on Monday, December 16. NAGRAT has expressed serious concerns over the potential adverse effects the bill could have on the country’s education system.
Speaking to the media ahead of the parliamentary session, NAGRAT President Angel Carbonu emphasized that the current form of the bill could lead to unintended consequences for the future of education in Ghana. He stressed the need for a thorough review and proper consultation before any further progress is made on the bill.
Carbonu warned that hastening the legislative process could undermine the quality of education and threaten the long-term viability of the Free SHS policy, a flagship initiative of the current government. While acknowledging the policy’s positive intentions, NAGRAT believes that a more detailed and comprehensive framework is required to ensure its success without compromising educational standards.
In addition to concerns about the Free SHS Bill, NAGRAT also highlighted the government’s failure to settle payments to the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), resulting in significant delays in the release of the 2024 WASSCE results. Carbonu criticized the oversight, noting its negative impact on students and families, which reflects deeper challenges within the education sector.
Furthermore, NAGRAT responded to the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s proposal for free first-year tertiary education, expressing skepticism about its feasibility and long-term sustainability. While recognizing the importance of expanding access to higher education, Carbonu called for more details on how the policy would be funded and its potential consequences on the broader education system.
The association emphasized that any new policy should be backed by a sustainable, well-thought-out plan that prioritizes both the quality and accessibility of education. NAGRAT reiterated the importance of careful planning to avoid repeating past mistakes and to ensure the best outcomes for students and the nation.
