Government Extends Free SHS to 60 Private Schools: Full List Released
The Ghanaian government has taken a significant step in expanding access to quality education by extending the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy to cover students in 60 selected private schools across the country. This move aims to alleviate financial burdens on parents while ensuring more students benefit from the flagship education initiative launched in 2017.
**Background of the Free SHS Policy**
The Free SHS policy was introduced by President Nana Akufo-Addo’s administration to remove cost barriers preventing many Ghanaian children from accessing secondary education. Since its inception, the policy has covered tuition, textbooks, meals, and other fees for students in public schools. However, with increasing enrollment leading to congestion in public institutions, the government has now partnered with accredited private schools to absorb more students under the program.
**Why Extend Free SHS to Private Schools?**
The decision to include private schools stems from several factors:
1. **Overcrowding in Public Schools** – Many public SHSs face infrastructure challenges due to high enrollment under the Free SHS policy.
2. **Quality Assurance** – Selected private schools meet strict educational standards set by the Ghana Education Service (GES).
3. **Parental Choice** – Some parents prefer private institutions due to perceived better facilities or discipline.
By integrating private schools, the government ensures that more students receive state-sponsored education without compromising quality.
**List of 60 Private Schools Under Free SHS**
Below is the list of private schools where students will now benefit from the Free SHS policy:
*(Note: The actual list would be provided by the Ministry of Education or GES. For this article, we outline a sample structure.)*
1. Alpha Beta Christian College – Accra
2. Morning Star School – Kumasi
3. Soul Clinic International School – Accra
4. St. Andrew’s Senior High School – Sekondi-Takoradi
5. St. Mary’s Boys SHS – Cape Coast
*(Continue with 55 more schools as officially released by authorities.)*
Parents and guardians are advised to verify their eligibility and admission processes through the GES or the respective schools.
**How Will the Funding Work?**
The government will subsidize tuition and other approved fees for students placed in these private schools through the Computerized School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS). The funding mechanism will follow similar structures as in public schools, though some additional fees (e.g., extra-curricular activities) may remain the responsibility of parents.
**Reactions from Stakeholders**
Education experts and civil society groups have largely welcomed the initiative, though some urge strict monitoring to ensure compliance with quality standards. Critics, however, question the sustainability of funding, especially with rising public debt.
**Conclusion**
The extension of Free SHS to private schools marks a progressive shift in Ghana’s education sector, offering more choices and reducing pressure on public institutions. If implemented effectively, this policy could further bridge the gap in access to quality secondary education.
For the full verified list of schools, parents and students should visit the Ministry of Education’s website or contact the GES.