Africa Education Watch (EduWatch) has called on former President John Mahama to clarify his recent promise to offer free tertiary education for Level 100 students.
EduWatch stated the need for details on how the policy would be implemented.
Divine Kpe, Senior Programmes Officer at EduWatch, acknowledged the potential benefits of such an initiative but stressed the importance of strengthening existing student financial support mechanisms.
“We have been doing quite a lot when it comes to financing at the tertiary education level. Our analysis shows that the current student loan system is not responsive enough to meet the financial needs of students. This has left many students unable to take advantage of opportunities for higher education,” he stated.
EduWatch’s recent report highlighted the challenges faced by students transitioning from senior high school to tertiary institutions.
According to Mr Kpe, over 60% of students admitted to tertiary institutions are unable to enrol due to financial constraints.
“If there is going to be an intervention, it is actually the entry point where support is most needed. If this free education program is meant to assist students as they enter tertiary education, it could be a step in the right direction. However, we need more details on how this initiative will be implemented,” Mr Kpe added.
The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama says that first-year tertiary students will not pay academic fees.
According to him, this is part of a government initiative to lessen the burden on parents financing the cost of their children’s education.
“We will implement a no-fees stress programme to alleviate the financial burden on parents and students in financing tertiary education. We will implement a no academic fees policy at the university for level 100 students,” he said.
He made these comments at the NDC’s manifesto reading on August 12.
EduWatch has joined the list of those calling for more clarity on how this will be achieved considering the country’s current economic situation.
Mr Kpe stressed the need for a comprehensive approach to improving financial support for tertiary students.
“Our recommendation, as outlined in our recent report, is for the government to enhance the effectiveness of the student loan system. This includes increasing the amount disbursed and ensuring timely release of funds to beneficiaries.”
While EduWatch recognises the potential impact of Mahama’s proposed free tertiary education for Level 100 students, Mr Kpe concluded that the success of such a policy would depend on its implementation.
“We need better and further particulars on how this is going to be rolled out. It’s a promising idea, but the details are crucial.”