A total of over GH¢ 9.9 billion has been spent on the Free Senior High School (SHS) programme, benefiting approximately 5.7 million young people across Ghana.
This was disclosed by the Finance Minister, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, during the delivery of the mid-year budget in parliament today.
The programme, which aims to provide free education to senior high school students, has been a significant investment in the country’s education sector.
The Free SHS programme has, however, been met with mixed reactions. Critics argue that the programme prioritizes quantity over quality, potentially compromising the standard of education. On the other hand, supporters commend the initiative for making education accessible to 1,488,575 students who might have otherwise been unable to afford it.
The debate continues as the government strives to balance educational access with maintaining high standards.
However, the capitation grant of each student has increased from GH¢5.00 in 2016 to GH¢15.00 in 2024.
