The Ghanaian government has announced a firm deadline of 2027 for the complete abolition of the double-track system currently in operation within Senior High Schools (SHS). This decision aligns with a key campaign pledge made by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) prior to the 2024 general elections, signaling a significant shift in the nation's educational policy.
Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, revealed the timeline during a recent stakeholders’ forum held in Sunyani, located in the Bono Region. The forum, which convened educators and policymakers, focused on strategies to enhance the quality of secondary education across the country. In his address, Minister Iddrisu acknowledged the numerous challenges associated with the double-track system, a model implemented to address overcrowding following the introduction of the Free SHS policy in 2018. However, he provided assurance that the government is actively engaged in substantial infrastructure expansion efforts, designed to facilitate the complete phase-out of the system by the established 2027 deadline.
“We recognize the concerns raised about the double-track system and are committed to ending it,” Minister Iddrisu stated. “Significant investments in school facilities will ensure a seamless transition.” This declaration underscores the government's resolve to address the persistent criticisms leveled against the double-track system, which has been a subject of considerable debate since its inception.
The double-track system was implemented as a temporary measure to manage the surge in student enrollment resulting from the Free SHS policy. However, critics, including the NDC, have consistently argued that the system has negatively impacted the quality of education by significantly reducing classroom contact hours for students. This reduction in instructional time has raised concerns about the overall academic development of students and the effectiveness of the educational system.
During the 2024 election campaign, the NDC made a firm commitment to scrap the double-track system, acknowledging the widespread concerns about its adverse effects. However, the party did not initially provide a specific timeline for the implementation of this policy change. The announcement of the 2027 deadline now provides a clear target for the government and stakeholders to work towards.
With the 2027 target now officially set, education stakeholders across Ghana are closely monitoring the government’s progress in delivering on this promise. The success of this initiative will depend on the effective implementation of infrastructure expansion projects and the efficient allocation of resources. The government's ability to meet this deadline will have significant implications for the future of secondary education in Ghana and will be a key indicator of its commitment to improving educational quality.
For the time being, the double-track system remains operational in SHS institutions nationwide. However, the announcement of the 2027 deadline has set a clear countdown, placing increased pressure on the government to expedite its infrastructure development efforts and deliver on its promise to eliminate this controversial educational model.
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