Education Ministry to Convert More Day SHSs into Boarding Schools to Address Double-Track Challenges
The Ministry of Education has announced plans to convert several day Senior High Schools (SHSs) in rural areas into boarding schools. This initiative aims to mitigate the challenges posed by the double-track system, which has impacted the educational experience of approximately 150,000 students nationwide.
The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, made this announcement during the inauguration of a specialized committee tasked with addressing the shortcomings of the double-track system. The Minister emphasized the necessity of the transition, particularly in rural areas, to improve access and quality of education.
Speaking at the event, Haruna Iddrisu highlighted how the current system has disrupted learning hours and reduced the time students spend in school. “The double-track system affects quality education. When students attend school for only two months and are sent home for others to replace them, it naturally impacts the quality of education they receive,” he explained.
To address these issues, the Ministry plans to expedite the completion of ongoing infrastructural projects, including the much-anticipated E-blocks, to expand capacity and enhance access to education.
The Minister also directed the committee to ensure the seamless integration of private schools into the Free Senior High School (SHS) program. “As outlined in our manifesto, we are committed to extending the Free SHS program to private senior high schools. The committee must assess the financial implications and ensure that every qualified Ghanaian child, regardless of location or socio-economic background, can access free quality education,” he urged.
The committee, chaired by Professor Peter Grant, comprises a distinguished panel of educators and administrators, including:
Professor Samuel Atintono (PRINCOF)
Professor Godwin Awabil (University of Cape Coast)
Professor Smile Dzisi (Deputy Director General, GES in charge of Management Services)
Dr. Munawaru Issahaque (Deputy Director General, GES in charge of Quality and Access)
D.W. Gbenyo (WAEC)
Dr. Rosemond Wilson (WAEC)
Mr. Augustus Agyemfra (CODE)
Mr. David Odjidja (CHASS)
Addo Nicholas Nii Kpakpo (COHBS)
Prince Charles Agyeman-Duah (Schools and Instructions Division, GES)
The committee has been tasked with formulating actionable recommendations to reverse the double-track system and align the education sector with the government’s broader vision of equitable and inclusive education for all.
This move by the Ministry underscores its commitment to addressing the challenges of the double-track system and ensuring that quality education becomes accessible to every Ghanaian child.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
