Minister for Information, Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah, has conveyed profound disappointment with former President John Dramani Mahama's recent remarks that downplayed the success of the Free Senior High School (SHS) programme, deeming them "woefully disheartening."Addressing journalists during the Christmas festivities in Akim Anyinase, Minister Oppong-Nkrumah criticized Mahama for his attempt to undermine the accomplishments of SHS graduates.

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“It is disheartening to observe how Former President Mahama will go all lengths to belittle the Free SHS programme and its results simply because it didn’t emanate from him,” stated Minister Oppong-Nkrumah.The recently disclosed 2023 WASSCE results, lauded as the best since 2015, are being credited to the positive influence of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy.

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However, former President Mahama, during his country tour, cast doubt on the integrity of the examination results, citing malpractices and alleging collusion between students and teachers to cheat.In response to Mr. Mahama's assertions, the legislator for Ofoase Ayirebi expressed shock and disappointment at the accusations of malpractices and cheating.

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The legislator emphasized that such comments undermine the hard work and achievements of the students who have benefited from the Free SHS initiative.“While he may not like the entire SHS program, he shouldn’t try so hard to denigrate the beneficiaries. Yes, the program may have some challenges, but to say that even the exceptional success of the students is fake is just amazing,” the Minister added.

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Minister Oppong-Nkrumah recalled the strong opposition from Mahama and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to the Free Senior High School (SHS) program, highlighting that the recent comments from the former President are a continuation of that stance.He urged for constructive discussions aimed at improving the Free SHS initiative and enhancing the education sector.

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Minister Oppong-Nkrumah emphasized that Ghana would benefit more from collaborative ideas rather than attempts to undermine the efforts and achievements of the beneficiaries of the Free SHS policy.

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