Former President John Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy. Speaking at a rally in Binduri during his 2024 election campaign tour, Mahama emphasized that he has no intention of canceling the policy but plans to enhance its implementation for better quality and education standards.
Commitment to Free SHS
Mahama made it clear that any claims about his plans to scrap the Free SHS policy are false. “If anybody tells you JM is coming to scrap Free SHS, that person is a big liar. JM is coming to improve the implementation of the Free SHS. The Free SHS has come to stay, but we are coming to make it a quality Free SHS,” he asserted.
Infrastructure Development
As part of his strategy, the 2024 National Democratic Congress (NDC) Flagbearer promised to invest in completing abandoned school projects and expanding existing ones. This move aims to provide the necessary infrastructure for the policy to thrive, ultimately eliminating the double-track system and increasing contact hours in schools.
“I wish to assure you that when we come, we are going to invest and finish all the abandoned E-Blocks…we are also going to expand the facilities in the existing schools so we can create access for Ghanaian children,” Mahama stated. “We are doing this to stop the double track system as soon as possible because we cannot afford the situation where our children come home and stay home for three to four months before they go back to school.”
Food Supply Management
Addressing the issue of irregular food supply to second-cycle schools, Mahama proposed a significant change in procurement policies. He suggested that headteachers should be allowed to procure food for their schools directly, rather than relying on the national buffer stock. This measure aims to ensure that students receive quality and healthy meals while also boosting local economies.
Job Creation
In addition to his plans for education, Mahama also promised to create job opportunities for young people if elected. He urged voters to support him and the NDC parliamentary candidates to secure a majority in parliament, which he believes is crucial for implementing his vision to improve the economy.
Campaign Support
Mahama was accompanied by several notable figures during his campaign tour, including Professor Joshua Alabi, his National Campaign Manager; Mr. Cletus Avoka, Member of Parliament for Zebilla; Mr. Mahama Ayariga, MP for Bawku Central; Mr. Issifu Mahoud, Parliamentary candidate for Binduri; Mrs. Joyce Bawah Mogtari, his Spokesperson; and other party executives.
For more details on Mahama’s campaign promises and policies, visit GhanaWeb and MyJoyOnline.
