EduWatch Urges Parliament to Delay Free SHS Bill for Wider Consultations
Education policy think tank, Africa Education Watch (EduWatch), has called on Parliament to hold off passing the Free Senior High School (SHS) Bill until broader stakeholder consultations take place. The bill, currently under consideration, aims to solidify the Free SHS policy into law, ensuring future governments maintain the initiative. EduWatch argues that rushing the process could undermine the quality and sustainability of secondary education in Ghana.
In a statement released this week, EduWatch emphasized that the Free SHS policy, while beneficial, has faced challenges in implementation. Issues such as inadequate infrastructure, teacher shortages, and inconsistent educational quality continue to plague the system. The think tank believes these challenges need to be thoroughly addressed before codifying the policy into law.
Kofi Asare, Executive Director of EduWatch, stated, *“The Free SHS policy has increased access to education, which is commendable. However, enshrining it into law without addressing current challenges could lock future governments into an unsustainable system.”* He further highlighted that several key stakeholders — including teachers, school administrators, and educational experts — have yet to be adequately consulted on the bill's provisions.
EduWatch also raised concerns about the bill’s long-term financial sustainability. The government currently spends about GH₵2.4 billion annually on Free SHS, a figure projected to rise with increasing student enrollment. Without a comprehensive funding strategy, the policy might strain national resources and affect the quality of education delivery.
The think tank's call for delay comes amid a heated public debate on the future of education in Ghana. Supporters of the bill argue that formalizing the Free SHS policy is necessary to prevent its reversal by future administrations. Critics, however, worry that legal entrenchment without systemic reforms could worsen existing problems.
Parliament’s Education Committee is expected to review the bill further before it proceeds to a vote. EduWatch insists that incorporating feedback from all relevant parties will ensure that the final legislation supports both accessibility and quality in education.
As the debate continues, Ghanaians are paying close attention to how Parliament handles this critical issue. The outcome will have lasting effects on the country's education system and the prospects of thousands of students.
What are your thoughts on the Free SHS Bill? Should Parliament delay it for further consultation?
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