Incoming President John Dramani Mahama is set to hold a national forum to discuss various policy proposals, according to Former Finance Minister Seth Terkper. This forum, similar to the Senchi forum, will bring together stakeholders to discuss proposals from opposing sides, fostering a collaborative approach to policymaking.
One of the key policy proposals to be discussed is the free senior high school (SHS) program. Terkper suggests that the program should be limited to day students, as is the case in Europe and the United States. In these regions, boarding schools are typically reserved for elite and brilliant but needy students who secure scholarships. Terkper questions the sustainability of Ghana's current approach, where the government bears the full cost of the program, which has already cost GHS 9.9 billion since its introduction in 2027.
Terkper's proposal has sparked concerns about the potential revenue shortfall and the impact on development projects. Chief Executive Officer of Dalex Finance, Joe Jackson, expressed concerns about how the government would generate revenue without certain taxes, including the e-levy. Mahama has promised to scrap several taxes within his first 100 days in office, including the e-levy, COVID levy, and import duty on vehicles and equipment for industrial and agricultural purposes.
Despite these challenges, the national forum provides an opportunity for stakeholders to discuss and find solutions to these economic challenges. Terkper emphasized the need for a discussion involving the diaspora to explore alternative revenue streams and funding models for programs like free SHS.
Mahama's commitment to holding a national forum demonstrates his willingness to engage with stakeholders and find collaborative solutions to Ghana's economic challenges. As the incoming administration prepares to take office, this forum provides a crucial platform for discussing policy proposals and charting a new course for Ghana's economic revitalization.
Some of the key policy proposals to be discussed at the national forum include:
- Free SHS program: Limiting the program to day students and exploring alternative funding models
- Tax reform: Scrapping certain taxes, including the e-levy, and exploring alternative revenue streams
- Economic development: Discussing strategies for promoting economic growth and development in Ghana
As Ghana prepares for a new administration, the national forum provides a critical opportunity for stakeholders to come together and shape the country's economic future.
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