The government says it will carry out a major review of the Free Senior High School programme in an effort to improve its implementation and address longstanding challenges affecting schools across Ghana.

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu said the exercise would bring together key stakeholders, including teachers, parents, school administrators, education experts and civil society groups, to assess the policy’s progress and identify areas that need reform.

Since its introduction, the Free SHS policy has expanded access to secondary education by removing financial barriers for many families. But it has also faced criticism over inadequate infrastructure, overcrowded classrooms, pressure on school resources and delays in supplying teaching and learning materials.

Officials say the review is intended to strengthen the programme and ensure students continue to receive quality education while the system’s challenges are addressed.

The Free SHS policy remains one of Ghana’s most significant education interventions, supporting hundreds of thousands of students across the country. The findings of the review are expected to shape the programme’s future direction and improve educational delivery nationwide.

Mr Iddrisu said the process would allow stakeholders to develop practical solutions while the government maintains its commitment to widening access to secondary education.

By Mariam Alhassan