Photo of University Lecturers Advocating for Free SHS During Campaign
A group of academics aligned with the ruling New Patriotic Party has stepped out of their lecture halls and into the political arena, vigorously campaigning under the banner of Lecturers for Free SHS. They are fiercely condemning former President John Dramani Mahama’s proposal to overhaul the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy. The lecturers, who are touring to protect the current system, have denounced Mahama’s plan as elitist, warning that it could shut out economically disadvantaged students from accessing quality education.
In a radio interview on Bankam FM, the lecturers expressed concern that Mahama’s proposal to introduce higher fees for “Category A” schools would deepen the divide between rich and poor students.
“This is elitism in its purest form,” said Dr Frank Bannor, a Development Economist and Lecturer at GIMPA.
Dr. Bannor argued that Mahama’s plan would create a two-tiered education system, where elite schools receive the bulk of resources, leaving underprivileged students at a disadvantage.
“Mahama’s plan will take us back to a system where only the wealthy can afford quality education,” Bannor added.
The Free SHS policy, which was launched in 2017 under President Nana Akufo-Addo, has provided tuition-free secondary education to millions of Ghanaian students. According to the lecturers, it has bridged socioeconomic gaps and opened opportunities for children from marginalized communities.
“The Free SHS program ensures access to education for all Ghanaian children, regardless of their financial status,” stated Professor Isaac Boadi, Dean of Finance and Accounting at UPSA.
Prof. Boadi warned that Mahama’s proposed changes would reverse years of progress.
“This policy is one of the most significant social interventions in Ghana. Any attempt to introduce elitism would be a step backwards,” he emphasized.
The lecturers did not mince words, accusing Mahama of failing to believe in the policy’s core principles and warning that his leadership could dismantle its foundation.
“Mahama will collapse the Free SHS if given the chance,” Prof. Boadi said, urging Ghanaians to vote for Dr Mahamudu Bawumia of the NPP, who he claims is committed to protecting and improving the policy.
Dr. Bannor pointed out that Mahama’s plan risks marginalizing rural and low-income students.
“Free SHS has made significant strides in levelling the playing field. Moving to an elite-based model will widen the gap between the haves and have-nots,” he explained.
The lecturers dismissed claims that the current system is unsustainable, emphasizing its critical role in providing inclusive and equitable education.
The coalition, including academics from UPSA, GIMPA, UCC, and UENR, stressed their commitment to preserving the Free SHS policy in its current form.
“Every Ghanaian must stand up to protect this policy. It’s not about politics; it’s about the future of our children,” Prof. Boadi urged.
As Ghana heads into the December 2024 elections, the debate over Free SHS is expected to dominate discussions, with Mahama’s proposal facing stiff resistance from academia and the broader public.
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