Haruna Iddrisu Announces Six Strategic Reforms Under Mahama’s Education Policy Framework.
The Minister highlighted six major areas where significant strides have been made to improve access, equity, and quality in Ghana’s education system.
Input from stakeholders guiding reforms
The Minister revealed that the recently held National Education Forum attracted widespread participation, with more than 2,000 suggestions submitted by various stakeholders, including teachers, parents, unions, and policymakers. These proposals are not just symbolic, he stressed, but are being actively considered in shaping the Ministry’s long-term education policy. The government, he added, is determined to ensure that future reforms reflect the collective voice of the people directly involved in and affected by the education system.
Digital platform easing application and funding processes
Mr. Iddrisu announced that the new “No-Fee-Stress” digital portal, introduced to simplify tertiary admission procedures and access to financial aid, has recorded over 129,000 users. The platform was created to reduce the burden on students and parents during the application season, and early feedback suggests it is achieving its goal. By centralizing applications and funding support, the portal ensures greater transparency and accessibility for all eligible students.
Support package for students with disabilities
In a move to promote inclusivity, the Minister disclosed that GHS 7 million has been allocated specifically to pay the tuition and other fees of tertiary students living with disabilities. He emphasized that this funding represents a broader commitment to equal opportunity in education, ensuring that disability does not become a barrier to academic achievement.
Free sanitary pads to be sourced locally
As part of efforts to support menstrual hygiene and reduce absenteeism among schoolgirls, the government’s Free Sanitary Pad policy will now rely solely on locally produced pads. “No imports whatsoever,” Mr. Iddrisu firmly stated. He further mentioned that a proposal is currently being reviewed to establish a manufacturing unit within the Prisons Service. This initiative is expected to generate employment and ensure a consistent supply of sanitary pads across schools.
Feeding programme for SHS students fully funded
To address ongoing concerns about student nutrition, the government has disbursed GHS 600 million in the past six months to sustain the Senior High School feeding programme. Mr. Iddrisu assured the public that the feeding system is being closely monitored to ensure that every beneficiary receives adequate and timely meals, which are crucial to both academic performance and student health.
National Research Fund to boost academic work
The Minister also announced the creation of a National Research Fund to support research activities in public universities. With an initial GHS 50 million provided by the GETFund, the initiative is expected to enhance the quality of academic work and innovation in the country’s tertiary institutions. He described it as a long-overdue step toward strengthening the link between research and national development.
In summary, Mr. Iddrisu affirmed that these updates represent the Mahama administration’s firm resolve to deliver an education system that is inclusive, responsive, and future-oriented.
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