Free SHS Challenges Must Be Priority for Haruna Iddrisu - Carbonu

Jan 16, 2025 - 21:16

Angel Carbonu is President of the Ghana National Association of Graduate Teachers (GNAT).

Accra, Ghana - 16 Jan, 2025 - Ghana's education sector is facing pressing issues that require immediate attention, according to Angel Carbonu, President of the Ghana National Association of Graduate Teachers (GNAT).

Speaking on Eyewitness News on Citi FM, Mr. Carbonu emphasized the need for urgent stakeholder engagement and policy clarity, particularly regarding the implementation of the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) programme.

Mr. Carbonu stressed that addressing the challenges facing the Free SHS program should be the top priority for the newly nominated Education Minister-designate, Haruna Iddrisu. He noted that the program has been a topical issue, and the new government has promised to address it through stakeholder engagement to achieve a national consensus.

The GNAT President also highlighted systemic challenges plaguing Ghana's education sector, including infrastructure deficiencies, compensation issues, and dwindling standards in basic education. These challenges, which have persisted over the years, require prompt attention from the minister-designate.

Mr. Carbonu expressed his hope that the minister-designate would address these issues, adding that GNAT is prepared to contribute to stakeholder consultations to ensure effective policy implementation.

“The immediate priority is the Free SHS program, which has been a topical issue in the news. It is something the new government promised to address through stakeholder engagement to achieve a national consensus on the way forward. We are looking forward to that consultation forum so we can make our contributions and add our quota to the discussion. That should be immediate,” he stated.

“The general challenge about education, we all know is the issue of infrastructure, compensation and the lack of satisfaction with the players in the sector. By this I mean teachers as well as the dwindling standard in basic education as a result of neglect. These are all challenges that have been there over the years. I hope and pray that the minister-designate will be able to address some of these issues,” he added.

Source: Lead News Online