The newly sworn-in Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has called for the validation of data regarding the number of beneficiaries of the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) programme.
According to him, one of the first major issues to address is the statistical validity of how many Ghanaians have benefitted from the Free SHS program.
“My research indicates that the number stands at no more than 3.9 million students between 2017 and 2023. However, there are public claims and even parliamentary records suggesting 5.1 million beneficiaries. We need to validate this data to ensure clarity and accountability.”
He made the call during his first official visit to the Ministry on Wednesday 22 January 2025 immediately after he was sworn-in by President Mahama. He emphasized the importance of establishing accurate statistics to ensure accountability and informed decision-making.
The Minister clarified that his intention was not to discredit alternative figures but to establish a credible baseline for future discussions and decisions. “Accurate data is essential for effective policy-making, and I am committed to ensuring that we rely on verified information as we move forward,” he added.
As part of his agenda, the Minister announced plans to convene a National Education Conference to assess the state of education in Ghana and develop actionable recommendations for policy reforms. “This conference will serve as a platform to critically analyze our current education system and propose solutions to address the gaps,” he stated.
“Our aim is to ensure that education in Ghana is reformed to guarantee quality and relevance at all levels,” Mr Iddrisu said.
The Education Minister also reiterated his commitment to supporting President John Dramani Mahama’s vision of making education accessible, relevant, and of high quality. “Education must be accessible to every Ghanaian, but it must also be relevant and of a standard that prepares our citizens for the challenges of the modern world,” he noted.
The Minister’s emphasis on transparency and accountability has been met with optimism within the education sector. Stakeholders see his leadership as an opportunity to address longstanding challenges and drive meaningful change.
The proposed National Education Conference is expected to bring together educators, policymakers, civil society, and other stakeholders to chart a new path for Ghana’s education system.
The Ministers visit to the Ministry’s head office was marked by a warm reception from the management staff, including Chief Director Mrs. Marmle Andrews and other senior officials. The visit provided an opportunity for enthused and excited staff who lined up on the corridors of the Minister to exchanged pleasantries with their new Minister.
Minister Iddrisu’s call for data validation and his outlined plans signal a fresh chapter for the Ministry of Education, highlighting the importance of evidence-based policy reforms to create a sustainable and impactful education system for future generations.
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