University Lecturers champion Free SHS as a path to a more equitable society

A group of university lecturers, collectively known as University Lecturers for Free SHS, has expressed their strong support for the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy as a means of fostering a more inclusive, equitable, and progressive society.

They believe this initiative will benefit not only the education system but also the nation as a whole.

The group emphasized, “Together, let us nurture an education system that leaves no child behind and builds a brighter future for all.”

They urged the government to continue engaging with teacher unions, prioritize the recruitment and training of both new and existing teachers, and enhance the remuneration of qualified educators to ensure the provision of high-quality education.

The professors and academicians, representing institutions such as the University of Cape Coast (UCC), the University for Development Studies (UDS), and the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), strongly believe that the Free SHS program is a beacon of hope for millions of children and a catalyst for national transformation.

As they stated, “As university lecturers, we pledge our unwavering support for this initiative and commit to advocating for its protection and improvement.”

At a press conference held at the University of Cape Coast, Professor Isaac Boadi, the Dean of the Accounting and Finance Department at UPSA, called on all stakeholders, including parents, educators, policymakers, and civil society, to work together to sustain and improve the Free SHS policy.

Professor Boadi noted that this policy is not just an initiative but a vital investment in the nation’s future.

He acknowledged that the introduction of Free SHS by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has significantly reduced school dropouts, child labor, and societal inequality.

He also urged the government to ensure that the program continues to benefit every Ghanaian child, particularly marginalized groups such as girls, children with disabilities, and those in remote areas.

“We also call on the government to establish robust systems through the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service to track the program’s impact, ensure accountability, and address challenges promptly,”Professor Boadi stated.

The senior Lecturer further commended the government’s efforts to provide physical infrastructure, including classrooms, dormitories, libraries, and laboratories, to accommodate the growing number of students.

He emphasized that this ongoing investment in infrastructure is crucial to ensuring that no Ghanaian child is excluded from the benefits of the Free SHS policy.

Professor Boadi also urged the government to maintain adequate funding and ensure the continued quality and accessibility of the program.

“We commend the government’s commitment to spending a total of 10 billion cedis on the Free SHS policy from its inception in 2017 until 2024, and we hope to see further increases in the budgetary allocation moving forward,”he added.

In closing, he praised President Akufo-Addo and Vice President Bawumia for their leadership in initiating and sustaining the Free SHS education program.

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