Otumfuo Calls for Review of Free SHS Policy: Advocates Payment by Those Who Can Afford

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has suggested a reassessment of Ghana’s Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, recommending that families capable of paying should contribute financially. This, he believes, would allow government resources to be directed toward students who genuinely need support.

During a meeting with the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, Otumfuo proposed a hybrid system similar to past models where scholarships were awarded to bright but underprivileged students, while those with financial means covered their own expenses.

“If someone can afford to pay, let’s reconsider the policy and allow them to do so,” he stated. “In the past, students who qualified received bursaries based on need, while those who could afford it paid their fees.”

While recognizing the positive impact of Free SHS, Otumfuo emphasized the importance of a national dialogue to address challenges and ensure the program’s long-term success.

“We must have discussions to ensure that Free SHS remains effective. If students frequently leave school due to food shortages, then the system needs improvement,” he cautioned.

He also highlighted infrastructure and logistical concerns affecting senior high schools, including overcrowded dormitories, inadequate science and ICT laboratories, food shortages, and insufficient school buses.

“Our dormitories are overcrowded, and many lack science and ICT labs. In some cases, Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) step in to help. The shortage of food and school buses must also be addressed to ensure students remain in school with adequate resources,” he added.

Introduced in 2017, the Free SHS policy was designed to eliminate financial barriers to secondary education. While it has significantly increased enrollment, concerns persist about its financial sustainability and overall educational quality.