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The Chief Executive Officer of Adwinsa Publications, Mr. Kwaku Oppong Amponsah, has called on the government to remain committed to the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, urging that its challenges be addressed rather than canceling it. Speaking at the 2025 International Day of Education event held at the Prempeh Assembly Hall in Kumasi, Mr. Oppong Amponsah emphasized the transformative impact the policy has had on Ghana’s education system and the future of the nation’s youth.
The event, which was held under the theme “Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation: AI and Education,” gathered key stakeholders, traditional leaders, and students to highlight the role of education in Ghana’s progress amidst rapid technological advancements. Mr. Oppong Amponsah used the platform to advocate for the sustainability of the Free SHS initiative, which has enabled countless students to access education without financial barriers.
He praised the government for its vision and bold decision to introduce the Free SHS policy, noting that it has opened up opportunities for many students, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. “The Free SHS policy has changed the lives of many children who would have otherwise not had the chance to attend school. It is an investment in the future of our nation, and we cannot afford to backtrack,” Mr. Oppong Amponsah stated.
While acknowledging the challenges associated with the policy, such as infrastructure and funding issues, Mr. Oppong Amponsah urged the government to focus on resolving these problems rather than canceling the policy. “The Free SHS policy is crucial for the future of Ghana, and we must work to address the issues that have come up. Let us not abandon it, but instead focus on making it more sustainable and effective,” he said.
He also directed his comments to the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), particularly former President John Dramani Mahama, in light of their calls for a review of the policy. Mr. Oppong Amponsah encouraged the NDC to ensure that any review is aimed at strengthening the policy and addressing the challenges, rather than undermining its core principles.
“The NDC must act swiftly to resolve the issues surrounding Free SHS, so that we do not lose the gains we have made in educating our future leaders. The policy must remain in place, and any review should focus on making it sustainable and better for our students,” he urged.
Mr. Oppong Amponsah concluded by reiterating the importance of education in shaping Ghana’s future and reducing inequality. He emphasized that the government must remain steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that all Ghanaian children have access to quality education, regardless of their background or financial situation.
As the debate over the Free SHS policy continues, Mr. Oppong Amponsah’s remarks highlight the importance of maintaining a bipartisan commitment to the policy’s long-term success and ensuring that the challenges facing it are addressed through collaboration and thoughtful solutions.
