Presidential aspirant Alan Kyerematen has raised critical questions about the future of Ghana’s Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, emphasizing the need for reforms to ensure its long-term impact and sustainability.Speaking at the Presidential Encounters 2024 hosted by the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation on November 22, 2024, Mr.

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Kyerematen highlighted gaps in the current programme, particularly its failure to provide clear pathways for graduates after SHS.“The Free SHS programme is a great policy, and I doubt whether any government would discontinue it,” he said. However, he cautioned, “After Free SHS, what next?” He argued that providing free education without preparing students for life after school diminishes the programme’s overall effectiveness.

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Under his Great Transformational Plan (GTP), Mr. Kyerematen outlined key reforms to address these challenges, focusing on financial sustainability, infrastructure development, curriculum improvement, capacity building for educators, and structured pathways for graduates to transition into tertiary education or the workforce.On financial sustainability, he underscored the importance of securing stable funding for the programme.

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“Where are we going to find the money to sustain this?” he asked, urging a thorough evaluation of funding sources. He also called attention to infrastructure deficits, such as inadequate classrooms and dormitories, which he said hinder the quality of education.Mr.

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Kyerematen also questioned the relevance of the current curriculum, asking, “What are we teaching them under the Free SHS programme? Is it helping them transition into the world of work?” He emphasized the need for curriculum reforms that align with modern economic demands and equip students with practical skills.

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Additionally, he advocated for enhanced training for teachers and administrative staff to improve the delivery and management of education.To prepare Free SHS graduates for life after school, Mr. Kyerematen proposed a compulsory one-year apprenticeship and internship programme under the GTP.

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This initiative would provide hands-on training and certification in artisanal and entrepreneurial skills, helping graduates discover their talents and meet market demands.For graduates interested in entrepreneurship, he pledged access to government programmes offering funding, mentorship, and resources to establish businesses.

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“This will foster a new generation of youth-led enterprises, reducing unemployment and boosting economic activity,” he explained.He also introduced the Health Screening Booths Scheme, which would allow graduates to operate health booths on a work-and-pay basis, simultaneously creating jobs and addressing healthcare gaps in underserved areas.For those aiming to join the national security services, Mr.

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Kyerematen committed to establishing recruitment pathways, while graduates pursuing higher education would receive financial support to overcome cost barriers.Mr. Kyerematen also emphasized the importance of basic and pre-basic education, arguing that these foundational levels are critical for students’ preparedness. “We talk about Free SHS as if the foundation doesn’t matter.

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Strengthening basic and pre-basic education is critical to ensure students are fully prepared for SHS and beyond,” he stated.As part of his broader vision, Mr. Kyerematen unveiled a groundbreaking policy to establish 100,000 free satellite internet hotspots nationwide.

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These hotspots, strategically located in schools and other key areas, aim to revolutionize education and empower the youth, particularly content creators burdened by high data costs.By addressing sustainability, quality, and outcomes, Mr. Kyerematen’s proposed reforms aim to transform the Free SHS policy into a comprehensive platform that prepares graduates to thrive in a competitive world.

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“Through the GTP, no graduate will be left behind,” he assured.

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