Free SHS has come to stay, it’s not going anywhere – Mahama reassures

President-elect John Dramani Mahama has pledged his unwavering commitment to the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy, dismissing accusations that his incoming administration intends to abolish it.

Speaking to the Voice of America (VOA), Mahama described claims made by New Patriotic Party (NPP) officials during the election campaign as baseless political propaganda designed to mislead voters. He reassured Ghanaians of his dedication to safeguarding the initiative.

“Free SHS has come to stay, and nobody will abolish it,” Mahama affirmed. “The claims were nothing more than political talk and gimmickry. Our focus will be on securing sustainable funding to strengthen and improve the programme.”

The Free SHS policy, launched in 2017 under the Akufo-Addo administration, ensures free tuition, boarding, and meals for students in public senior high schools.

While the initiative has significantly expanded access to secondary education, particularly for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, it has been plagued by challenges such as overcrowded classrooms, inadequate facilities, and delayed funding.

Mahama’s approach seeks to address these shortcomings without compromising the programme’s core benefits.

According to Mr Mahama, his administration aims to establish a dedicated funding structure to ensure its long-term sustainability while enhancing the quality of education for all beneficiaries.