Free SHS: Address Challenges Without Scrapping the Policy – NPP Communicator

Fred Amankwah Sarfo, a member of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Communications Team, has defended the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy amid criticisms from various quarters.

Speaking on TV3’s New Day with Roland Walker, Sarfo acknowledged the hurdles in the policy’s implementation but maintained that its benefits far outweigh the difficulties.

“Many doubted the feasibility of Free SHS, but we came into office and made it a reality. Yes, challenges exist, and everyone acknowledges that, but we are committed to resolving them as we move forward,” he stated on January 27.

Sarfo criticized those questioning the intentions behind the policy, particularly allegations that its introduction was politically motivated rather than a genuine commitment to education.

He dismissed such claims as “unfair” and urged Ghanaians to focus on finding practical solutions instead of dismissing the initiative altogether. “Challenges should not overshadow the importance of this policy. It is a game-changer for education. Instead of abandoning it, let’s work towards fixing the issues,” he asserted.

He also addressed the divisive nature of the Free SHS debate, emphasizing that discussions should move beyond a simplistic good-versus-bad argument and instead concentrate on improving its execution.

The Free SHS policy, a flagship initiative of the NPP government, has been under scrutiny since its launch. Critics have pointed to overcrowding and resource shortages as indicators of poor planning.

Nevertheless, supporters regard it as a transformative program that has significantly expanded access to secondary education for thousands of Ghanaian students.