The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has urged the government to reconsider aspects of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy to address its challenges and ensure sustainable quality education in Ghana.
While acknowledging the positive impact of the initiative, he pointed out that issues such as inadequate feeding continue to affect students, making it difficult to achieve the intended goal of accessible and quality education.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Education Minister and the Ashanti Regional Minister to the Manhyia Palace, Otumfuo suggested that parents who can afford their children’s education should be allowed to contribute financially.
“We are indeed rolling out the Free SHS, but if we brainstorm and realize students will have to go to school and be asked to return home because there’s no food, then it is of no use. Let’s take a critical look at it,” he stated.
He further recommended a scholarship system similar to the previous Cocoa Scholarships to support brilliant but underprivileged students.
“If some parents can pay, we should allow them. In the past, if you passed your exam, we checked up with the bursar to assist brilliant but needy students. That’s where we had the Cocoa Scholarships,” he added.
Otumfuo also called for a reallocation of government funds to strengthen the education sector, emphasizing the need for better infrastructure and resources in schools.
“E-blocks have stalled. Funding is a challenge, but some sectors that aren’t critical could have their funds reduced to be re-channeled to the education sector to improve education. Some dormitories in schools are still not occupied. Some schools do not have Science and IT labs. Even the PTA fees are no longer available. Government should look at these challenges and address them,” he said.
Encouraging the newly appointed Education Minister to remain dedicated to his duties, Otumfuo reminded him of his past leadership roles and urged him to work diligently.
“You were once a minister for trade and industry, and also communication. You should continue being humble to deliver your services,” he advised.
Source: Ameyawdebrah.com
