Mahama sets records straight on number of Free SHS beneficiaries under Akufo-Addo

President John Dramani Mahama has clarified the number of the beneficiaries under Free Senior High School (SHS) policy.

In his first State of the Nation Address, Mahama assured Ghanaians that he will not cancel the policy but rather improve its implementation.

According to President Mahama, “Once again, for emphasis and for the record, I, John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, will not cancel the Free SHS programme.” He declared, “I am determined to make it better by improving its implementation”.

Mahama revealed that the actual number of beneficiaries under the Free SHS policy is 3.4 million, contrary to the 5.1 million claimed by the previous administration. He attributed the discrepancy to inaccurate data and a flawed implementation process.

According to the Ghana Education Service, the Free SHS policy has increased enrollment rates, but challenges persist, including overcrowding, inadequate infrastructure, and poor feeding arrangements.

Mahama outlined a comprehensive plan to address these challenges, including the abolition of the double-track system, improvement of feeding arrangements, and restoration of Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs). He also announced plans to expand technical and vocational education, as well as introduce a new student loan scheme.

The President emphasized that his administration is committed to ensuring that all Ghanaian students have access to quality education, regardless of their background or financial situation.

“We will work tirelessly to improve the Free SHS policy and ensure that it benefits all Ghanaians,” Mahama assured. “We will not abandon this policy, but rather build upon it to create a brighter future for our children”.