Africa Education Watch (EduWatch), an education think tank has urged Parliament to delay the introduction of the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) Bill until comprehensive consultations are conducted with key stakeholders.
The organization has expressed concern over the government’s plan to present the Bill in Parliament on December 16, stating that the process lacks adequate stakeholder engagement.
In a statement issued on December 13, EduWatch stressed the need for inclusivity and transparency in developing policies that impact Ghana’s education system.
The group has called on the Education Minister, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, to lead discussions with stakeholders, including education experts, civil society organizations, and parent-teacher associations, to ensure the Bill represents a broad consensus.
EduWatch emphasized that such consultations are essential to address potential gaps in the policy and build national support for the Free SHS initiative.
The Free Senior High School Bill, 2024, drafted by the Ministry of Education (MoE), aims to provide legal backing for free and compulsory education at the Senior High School level.
Read the statement below:
By: Nana Antwi Boasiako