Education think tank Africa Education Watch (EduWatch) has called on Parliament to postpone the introduction of the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) Bill until thorough consultations are conducted with key stakeholders.
EduWatch expressed concerns about the government’s plan to present the Bill to Parliament on December 16, arguing that the process lacks sufficient stakeholder engagement.
In a statement released on December 13, the organization stressed the need for inclusivity and transparency in shaping policies that impact Ghana’s education system.
EduWatch urged the Education Minister, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, to lead discussions with education experts, civil society organizations, and parent-teacher associations to ensure the Bill reflects diverse perspectives and secures national support.
“We call on Parliament to defer deliberations on the Bill until consultations are held. In the spirit of inclusive policy governance, we urge the Minister of Education to convene stakeholder consultative meetings and engage education Civil Society Organisations, Development Partners, parents, and teachers, on the Bill,” the statement read.
The Free Senior High School Bill, 2024, drafted by the Ministry of Education, aims to provide legal backing for free and compulsory Senior High School education in Ghana.
EduWatch emphasized that stakeholder engagement is critical to addressing potential policy gaps and ensuring the initiative’s success.
Read the statement below:
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