The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has strongly opposed the government’s proposal to extend the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy to private schools.
The Association argues that the move could exacerbate pressure on limited educational resources and potentially undermine the public education system.
The government, however, views the policy shift as a strategy to expand access to secondary education and reduce overcrowding in public schools. According to Deputy Minister for Education, Dr. Clement Apaak, the inclusion of private institutions forms part of a broader plan to phase out the double-track system and improve overall capacity.
Speaking at the launch of the revised school selection guidelines for Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidates on May 27, Dr. Apaak stated:
“As part of our campaign promise, we’ve worked diligently to bring private senior high schools on board. Meetings and engagements have been held, and we are confident that with the commitment from both sides, private schools will deliver. This step will also help us eliminate the double-track system.”
However, GNAT General Secretary Thomas Musah raised serious concerns over the proposed expansion, especially regarding funding and sustainability.
“We don’t want a situation where the government later claims there are no resources for public schools, while adding private institutions to the burden,” Musah warned. “We’ve already called for contributions from parents who can afford to pay. Expanding the policy now may worsen existing challenges.”
He further cautioned that the move could ultimately intensify strain on the education system rather than provide relief.
“We’ve yet to resolve many existing issues. Adding more responsibility at this point could become a serious burden,” he added.
Credit: myjoyonline.com
