Difference between Senior High Schools and Basic Schools under the Basic Education Policy

Ferdinand | EducationGhana | February 22 | Difference between Senior High Schools and Basic Schools under the Basic Education Policy

There have been contradictory interpretations regarding the definition of Basic Education in relation to the Basic and Senior High school levels in Ghana’s Pre-Tertiary Education system.

In this article, we take a comprehensive look at the key terminologies and their distinctive explanations.

Sustainable Development Goal 4 and Basic Education

The Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 is a key literature to the concept of Basic Education gaining international recognition.

Under SDG 4, Countries are expected to provide Universal Primary and Secondary  Education to all children. In response to this requirement, Ghana took an entrenched position, that Secondary education shall be the minimum level of education for its citizens.

In this regard, Senior High Schools were added to the definition of “Basic Education”. This addition does not automatically transform Senior High Schools into Basic Schools.

The Pre-Tertiary Education Act, 2020 (Act 1049)

The Pre-Tertiary Education Act, 2020 (Act 1049) Section 1 clearly indicates that;

Basic Education Comprises;

1. Two years of Kindergarten;
2. Six years of Primary Education; and
3. Three Years of Junior High School Education

Secondary Education Comprises;

1. Three Years of Senior High School; or
2. Three Years of Technical and Vocational Education and Training

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Findings

The major findings in this article indicate that;

There have been contradictions as to the concept of Basic Education in relation to the SDG 4 requirements and the Pre-Tertiary Education Act, of 2020 (Act 1049). This was identified in the following ways;

1. SDG 4 requirements; Ghana Added Secondary Schools to the definition of ‘Basic Education
2. Pre-Tertiary Education Act, 2020 (Act 1049); Does not add Secondary Schools to the definition of Basic Education

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Recommendations

It is recommended that;

1. The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) should give  a concise definition of Basic Education in consultation with the relevant stakeholders, taking into consideration the requirements of SDG 4 and the Pre-Tertiary Education Act, 2020 (Act 1049)
2. The definition of Basic Education should be relevant to the Pre-Tertiary Education Act, of 2020 (Act 1049)
3. The SGD 4 can still consider the definition of Basic Education by the Pre-Tertiary Education Act, 2020 (Act 1049)
4. There is a need for comprehensive public education on the exact definition and composition of Basic Education as shall be determined by the stakeholder consultations.

Article By: Ferdinand Ellis

Expertise: Educational Research and Policy Analyst| Curriculum Specialist | Pedagogist | Education Blogger|

Institution: University of Education, Winneba, Ghana

Address: Post Office Box NB 179 Nii Boiman -Accra

Citation:  Ellis, F. (2023). Difference between Senior High Schools and Basic Schools under the Basic Education Policy. Education Ghana Media Publications. EducationGhana.org

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