The government has allocated GH¢3.5 billion to support the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) program, introducing a key policy change by removing the cap on the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) to boost funding.
Announcing the allocation during the presentation of the 2025 Budget Statement, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson stated that this move aims to address financial gaps in the Free SHS policy and improve secondary school infrastructure.
“To ensure sustainable financing for education, the government is removing the cap on GETFund, allowing more funds to flow directly into the education sector,” Dr. Forson said.
Since its inception, the Free SHS policy has faced challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, overcrowding, and delayed fund disbursement. The removal of the GETFund cap is expected to unlock additional resources to:
- Expand classrooms and dormitory facilities in overcrowded schools.
- Provide essential teaching and learning materials.
- Enhance teacher recruitment and training to improve education quality.
Dr. Forson reaffirmed the government’s commitment to Free SHS, emphasizing that the funding adjustment would strengthen its implementation.
“The program has significantly increased access to secondary education, and this funding will ensure that no Ghanaian child is left behind,” he told Parliament.
The GH¢3.5 billion allocation is also expected to address long-standing infrastructure deficits in many senior high schools nationwide.
Acknowledging concerns about overcrowding and inadequate facilities, Dr. Forson assured lawmakers that part of the funding would be used to construct additional school blocks and dormitories.
“The government recognizes the infrastructure challenges and is committed to expanding facilities in heavily populated schools,” he stated.
Credit: Graphic Online.
