I’m Not Against Free SHS, But I’m Rooting for Quality Education

In recent years, the introduction of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy in Ghana has been met with both praise and criticism. On the one hand, it has made education accessible to many students who previously could not afford it, promoting inclusivity and giving hope to families struggling with the cost of schooling. However, while the policy is well-intentioned, there’s an important conversation to be had, one that focuses not just on access but also on the quality of education that students are receiving.

I am not against Free SHS; in fact, I wholeheartedly support the idea that every child deserves access to education. Education is a powerful tool that can change lives, break cycles of poverty, and empower future generations. Yet, when we talk about education, we must consider more than just getting students into classrooms. We must focus on the quality of the education they receive once they are there.

The Free SHS policy was introduced with the aim of removing financial barriers that prevent students, especially from low-income backgrounds, from accessing secondary education. Before its implementation, many bright students were left out of school due to their parents’ inability to pay for tuition, accommodation, and other related fees. Now, under this policy, thousands of young people who otherwise might not have been able to afford SHS are getting the opportunity to complete their secondary education.

The policy has also helped to increase enrollment rates, with more students benefiting from the opportunity to attend school. Additionally, it has given parents a sense of relief as they no longer have to bear the heavy burden of tuition fees for their children’s education. These are all positive outcomes, and it is important to acknowledge the successes of the initiative.

However, while Free SHS has made secondary education more accessible, it has also brought to light some challenges. One of the most pressing concerns is the quality of education that students are receiving. As the number of students in schools increases, there are growing concerns over overcrowded classrooms, shortages of teaching materials, and a lack of adequate facilities.

Teachers are often stretched thin, with larger class sizes making it difficult to give individual attention to students. In some cases, the physical infrastructure of schools, such as the lack of desks, classrooms, and basic amenities in some schools has also become a barrier to effective learning. Moreover, many schools are still grappling with insufficient resources, which affects their ability to provide a well-rounded education.

While I support Free SHS, I am also a strong advocate for quality education. We cannot simply focus on getting students into schools if they are not receiving the education they deserve once they are there. The goal should be to provide equitable and high-quality education that prepares students for the real world, equips them with the necessary skills, and makes them competitive in the global job market.

Quality education goes beyond textbooks and examinations. It encompasses the development of critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, and life skills. In a rapidly changing world where technological advancements and global challenges are at the forefront, it is imperative that students are not just memorizing facts, but are learning to apply their knowledge in practical ways.

The government, educators, and policymakers need to work together to ensure that the Free SHS policy is complemented by measures that improve the quality of education. This includes investing in teacher training, upgrading school facilities, reducing class sizes, and ensuring that schools are equipped with the necessary learning materials and technology.

Moreover, there must be a focus on curriculum reforms that are responsive to the needs of the modern workforce. The education system should place an emphasis on critical skills, vocational training, and the integration of technology to prepare students for the 21st-century economy. This will ensure that the students coming out of SHS are not only academically proficient but are also employable and equipped to contribute to society in meaningful ways.

The introduction of Free SHS was a significant achievement in terms of making education more accessible. But the next step should be a call for holistic reform in the education sector, where quality and accessibility go hand in hand. We need to create an education system that ensures every child, regardless of their socio-economic background, receives an education that is both accessible and of the highest possible quality.

The education system should aim to provide a balanced approach, one that ensures equal access while maintaining high standards of academic and practical education. The focus should not solely be on increasing enrollment rates, but also on fostering an environment where students can thrive and reach their full potential.

In conclusion, I am not against Free SHS, and I applaud the strides made in making education accessible to more students. However, it is essential that we do not lose sight of what truly matters, “quality education”. Free SHS is a step in the right direction, but it must be part of a larger vision that prioritizes both accessibility and excellence in education. We need to ensure that every child not only has the opportunity to attend school but also the opportunity to receive an education that prepares them for success in life.