Free SHS: 99 schools return to single track as gov’t plans full transition – Dr. Apaak

The government says 99 senior high schools have returned to the traditional single-track academic calendar as part of efforts to end the double-track system and increase students’ contact time in school.

Deputy Education Minister Dr. Clement Abas Apaak said the government remained committed to ending the double-track system entirely to ensure that students benefit from a full academic calendar.

Addressing the 60th anniversary celebration of St. Martin’s Senior High School at Adoagyiri-Nsawam on Saturday, November 7, 2026, Dr. Apaak said the transition formed part of efforts to improve access to and the quality of secondary education.

“Free Senior High School is not only continuing; it is being improved. Ninety-nine schools have returned from the double-track system to the traditional single-track calendar, and the Government is committed to ending double track entirely, so that every student gets full contact time in school,” he said.

Dr. Apaak also highlighted the government’s No Fee Stress policy, which is intended to ease the financial burden on parents and guardians.

He said Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu was working with the Ministry of Finance to ensure the timely release of funds to schools, preventing parents from having to make payments upfront and wait for refunds.

“The Honourable Minister is working with the Ministry of Finance for the timely release of funds to schools, so that parents do not have to pay first and wait for refunds,” he stated.

The Deputy Minister said improving access to education must go beyond enrolment to include adequate learning time, financial support and the resources needed to keep students in school.

He delivered the remarks at the anniversary celebration held under the theme, “Six Decades of Excellence: Celebrating Legacy and Empowering 21st Century Learners”.

St. Martin’s SHS, located at Adoagyiri-Nsawam, marked 60 years of providing secondary education, with the celebration recognising the contributions of past and present teachers, students, administrators and alumni.