Survey: 85% of Ghanaians Support Continuation of Free SHS Amid Growing Concerns Over Education Quality

Ferdinand | EducationGhana |  November 08|Survey: 85% of Ghanaians Support Continuation of Free SHS Amid Growing Concerns Over Education Quality

“Afrobarometer survey reveals that 85% of Ghanaians support Free SHS, yet 24% cite education as a top issue. Ghanaians also back Planting for Food and Jobs and other government programs.”

A recent Afrobarometer survey shows that a significant 85% of Ghanaians want the next government to continue the Free Senior High School (SHS) education program, even as concerns over the quality and effectiveness of the education system rise.

Conducted by the Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD), the survey reflects strong support for Free SHS, a policy that was first implemented in 2017 under President Nana Akufo-Addo. The policy aims to provide equitable access to senior high school education for all Ghanaian students, in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

However, the survey reveals an increasing number of Ghanaians consider education a pressing issue that needs attention. A total of 24% of respondents cited education as one of the nation’s top three problems, marking the highest rating since Afrobarometer began surveying in 2008. This is a significant increase from the 14% recorded in 2019, underscoring a growing concern about education quality and infrastructure.

Support for Key Government Initiatives

Alongside Free SHS, other major government initiatives received strong public endorsement. 81% of respondents voiced support for the Planting for Food and Jobs initiative, a program aimed at boosting agriculture and food security.

Additionally, 71% support the One District, One Factory (1D1F) policy, and 60% favor the One Village, One Dam initiative, which focuses on providing water resources for agricultural activities.

Economic Concerns and Priorities

While Ghanaians strongly support educational and developmental initiatives, the survey also highlights areas where citizens desire urgent government intervention. Unemployment emerged as the top concern, with 41% of respondents identifying it as the most significant issue facing the country. Infrastructure followed closely at 38%, and healthcare was mentioned by 33% of respondents.

The survey also captured dissatisfaction with the Electronic Transactions Levy (E-levy), with 79% of Ghanaians calling for its removal. Moreover, nearly 70% of respondents reported that they or a household member experienced at least one period without a cash income during the previous year. Shortages were also noted in essential areas like medical care (54%), water (44%), food (44%), and cooking fuel (42%).

Economic Performance Ratings

The government’s handling of the economy received mostly negative feedback in the survey. Fewer than two in 10 Ghanaians (19%) rated the government positively in economic management.

Ratings for job creation (18%), improving living standards (17%), narrowing the wealth gap (11%), and price stability (8%) were also low. This reflects a challenging economic environment where citizens are increasingly concerned about inflation, poverty, and the overall cost of living.

Free SHS: A Policy with Strong Public Backing

The Free SHS program remains a cornerstone of public policy, with support largely rooted in its promise of accessible and equitable education. Introduced in September 2017 as part of the Akufo-Addo administration’s vision for inclusive

What is the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) Program?

The Free Senior High School (Free SHS) Program in Ghana is an initiative launched in September 2017 by the Ghanaian government to provide free secondary education to all eligible students who qualify for public senior high schools (SHS), technical, and vocational institutions. This policy, championed by President Nana Akufo-Addo, aims to ensure equal access to quality secondary education, particularly benefiting students from low-income families who may otherwise struggle to afford it.

Key Features of Ghana’s Free SHS Program:

1. Coverage of Costs: The program fully funds tuition, examination fees, textbooks, boarding, meals, and other essential costs for students enrolled in public SHS, reducing the financial burden on parents.
2. Increased Enrollment: Since its introduction, Free SHS has significantly increased student enrollment across the country, ensuring that students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds have the opportunity to complete secondary education.
3. Enhanced Infrastructure: To accommodate the growing number of students, the government has invested in expanding infrastructure, including new classroom blocks and dormitories, though some challenges in facilities remain.
4. Double-Track System: To manage the surge in enrollment and limited facilities, the double-track system was introduced. This system alternates students in two cohorts, each attending classes at different times, ensuring that all students benefit from the Free SHS policy despite facility constraints.
5. Impact on Education: The program has improved access to secondary education nationwide and aims to boost literacy rates, enhance career opportunities, and reduce poverty levels through education.

Free SHS has received both praise and criticism: while many applaud its inclusivity, some express concerns about the strain on resources and the quality of education. Nonetheless, it remains a landmark policy in Ghana’s educational reforms.