Presidential hopeful Alan Kyerematen has unveiled a comprehensive plan to reform Ghana’s flagship Free Senior High School (Free SHS) programme. As part of his campaign for the presidency, Kyerematen highlighted the need for structural and operational changes to enhance the programme’s sustainability, quality, and efficiency.
Speaking at a recent event, Kyerematen acknowledged the Free SHS policy as a transformational initiative but emphasized the pressing need for reform to address challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, overcrowded classrooms, and declining educational standards. His proposals focus on balancing access to free education with the need to maintain high academic performance and alleviate the financial burden on the government.
Central to Kyerematen’s plan is a public-private partnership model. He proposed a system where private schools play a significant role in absorbing excess students, easing the strain on public schools. This model, he argued, would not only expand access but also foster healthy competition between schools, driving up standards across the board.
Another critical component of his reform agenda is targeted funding. While Free SHS will remain accessible to all, he advocated for a needs-based approach to funding, prioritizing students from underprivileged backgrounds. This strategy, he explained, would ensure that resources are directed where they are most needed while allowing families with the means to contribute to their children’s education.
Additionally, Kyerematen stressed the importance of curriculum reforms that align education with job market demands. He emphasized the need for vocational and technical training to equip students with practical skills, preparing them for Ghana’s industrial transformation agenda.
Teacher motivation and retention also featured prominently in his plan. Kyerematen promised better working conditions and competitive salaries to attract and retain high-quality educators. He also proposed investment in digital infrastructure to modernize education delivery and provide equal opportunities for students in rural areas.
Kyerematen’s reform strategy has sparked significant debate among stakeholders, with many acknowledging its potential to address long-standing challenges within the Free SHS programme. His critics, however, have raised questions about the feasibility of these reforms and their implications for Ghana’s education budget.
As the 2024 elections approach, Kyerematen’s vision for Free SHS reform positions him as a candidate with innovative solutions to one of Ghana’s most pressing policy issues. Whether his proposals resonate with voters remains to be seen.
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