Feasibility of Free Education in Ghana: Past Efforts and Future Prospects
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Introduction
Education
is an essential tool for personal and national development. In Ghana, there
have been efforts to promote free education, but the implementation of this
policy has been met with several challenges. This paper will examine the
possibilities and challenges of free education in Ghana, analyse past efforts
to promote free education, and provide recommendations for effective
implementation.
Possibilities
of Free Education in Ghana
The
benefits of free education in Ghana are numerous. Access to free education can
increase enrolment rates, reduce the dropout rate, and provide more
opportunities for students to complete their education. Free education can also
promote social mobility, reduce poverty, and increase literacy rates. It can
also provide an opportunity for Ghana to meet its international commitments to
the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of ensuring inclusive and quality
education for all.
Challenges
of Free Education in Ghana
Despite
the possibilities of free education in Ghana, there are several challenges
associated with its implementation. The cost of providing free education is
significant, and there is a need for adequate funding to ensure sustainability.
There are also concerns about the quality of education provided under free
education, and the lack of access to learning materials and resources can
affect the quality of education.
Past
Efforts to Promote Free Education in Ghana
Ghana
has a history of efforts to promote free education. In 1951, the government
introduced the Education Act, which provided free primary education for all
Ghanaian children. In 1987, the Free Compulsory Universal Basic Education
(FCUBE) policy was introduced, which aimed to provide free basic education for
all children. However, the implementation of these policies was not fully
realized due to inadequate funding and challenges in infrastructure and quality
of education.
In
2017, the government of Ghana introduced the Free Senior High School (SHS)
policy, which aimed to provide free secondary education for all Ghanaian
students. The policy has been successful in increasing enrolment rates and
reducing the financial burden on parents. However, there have been challenges
in the quality of education provided, with concerns about the availability of
resources and infrastructure.
Recommendations
for Effective Implementation of Free Education
To
ensure the effective implementation of free education in Ghana, there is a need
for increased funding, investment in infrastructure, and the provision of
learning materials and resources. There is also a need for teacher training and
development to ensure the quality of education provided under free education.
Additionally, partnerships between the government, the private sector, and
international organizations can provide support for the implementation of free
education.
Conclusion
Free
education in Ghana has the potential to promote development and improve the
quality of life for Ghanaians. However, there are challenges associated with
its implementation, such as the cost and the quality of education provided. The
government and stakeholders must work together to address these challenges and
ensure the effective implementation of free education in Ghana.
Ghana
Education Service. (2017). Free Senior High School Policy Document. Retrieved
from
https://www.ges.gov.gh/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Free-Senior-High-School-Policy-Document-1.pdf
Ministry
of Education. (2014). Education Strategic Plan 2010-2020. Retrieved from
https://www.moe.gov.gh/files/ESP%202010-2020%20Final.pdf
United
Nations. (2015). Sustainable Development Goals. Retrieved from https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/education/
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