Independent presidential candidate Alan Kwadwo Kyeremateng has vowed to conduct a thorough review of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy if elected president in the upcoming general elections. While recognizing the policy as a significant and positive initiative that has expanded access to secondary education, Kyeremateng emphasized the importance of refining its implementation to maximize its effectiveness.
During his address at an Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) forum, Kyeremateng praised the Free SHS policy for alleviating the financial burden on parents and making education more accessible to the youth. However, he stressed that there are critical areas that need improvement, including the quality of education, infrastructure, teacher welfare, and resource allocation.
He highlighted the need to address overcrowding in classrooms, ensure a more efficient distribution of learning materials, and improve the overall learning environment for students.
Kyeremateng outlined his plan to streamline the policy, ensuring that its long-term sustainability benefits not only students but the nation as a whole.
“While the Free SHS initiative is a step in the right direction, it needs to be fine-tuned to produce better outcomes.
We must focus on quality as much as we do on access,” he said. He further noted that his government would engage stakeholders, including educators, parents, and policy experts, to carry out a review that would lead to reforms focused on improving student performance, addressing teacher shortages, and enhancing the infrastructure of schools.
Kyeremateng’s pledge adds to the growing debate over the future of the Free SHS policy, with many citizens calling for reforms to address challenges that have emerged since its implementation.
As the 2024 elections approach, education policy is expected to remain a central issue, and Kyeremateng’s promise of a comprehensive review signals his commitment to ensuring a stronger educational foundation for the country’s future.
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Story by: Osei Akoto (Teacher Kojo) #Ahotoronline.com
