The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has raised concerns over the challenges facing Ghana’s Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, suggesting a review may be necessary if issues such as food shortages, accommodation struggles, and inconsistent academic calendars persist.
Speaking at the Manhyia Palace during a courtesy visit by Minister for Education Haruna Iddrisu, the Asantehene questioned the effectiveness of the policy in its current form.
“If students under the Free SHS policy are not fed due to food shortages, face accommodation challenges, and vacate after just a few days in school, then it would be better to cancel the policy or review it so that those who can afford it pay,” he stated.
His remarks come amid growing concerns from parents, educators, and students about the sustainability of the programme, a flagship initiative of the government.
In response, Minister Iddrisu acknowledged the challenges and assured the Asantehene that the government remains committed to resolving them. He revealed that his ministry is working on interventions to improve feeding, accommodation, and overall policy management to enhance its effectiveness.
Introduced to ensure equal access to secondary education, the Free SHS policy has faced ongoing criticisms over infrastructural deficits and logistical issues, raising questions about its long-term viability.
