The New Patriotic Party's (NPP) flagbearer has acknowledged the achievements of the government's Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, while also recognizing the need for further improvements.

He has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the policy's sustainability under his leadership.

Despite challenges, including promises from the National Democratic Congress's flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, to review it upon assuming power, the Vice President emphasized the Free SHS's significant success.

In an interview with Africa Watch Magazine, Dr. Bawumia stated, “The policy has therefore been a resounding success. That does not mean it is without problems. There is more to be done to improve it.

“I am committed to the Free SHS policy, and I believe it would be safe and sustainable in my hands,” Dr Bawumia noted.

Dr. Bawumia pledged to bolster the policy by constructing additional infrastructure such as classroom blocks, dormitories, and dining facilities for schools across Ghana. He also committed to investing in teacher training and professional development to enhance curriculum relevance and alignment with workforce needs.

“My government will build more infrastructure like classroom blocks, dormitories, and dining facilities for the schools. My government will also invest in teacher training and professional development, enhancing curriculum relevance and alignment with workforce needs,” he promised.

Furthermore, he highlighted the policy's significant impact on student enrollment in Senior High Schools, particularly in underserved regions.

He noted that Ghana has achieved gender parity in SHS education, with an increase in enrollment not compromising quality.

He concluded by stating that the policy's success underscores the need for ongoing improvements and enhancements to ensure its effectiveness in providing accessible and quality education to all Ghanaian youth.

“The programme is a cornerstone of our government’s commitment to expanding access to quality education for all Ghanaian youth. It is probably one of the most successful social intervention programmes ever implemented in Ghana.

“It has dramatically boosted student enrollment in senior high schools across the country. What is more important, the highest enrollments are coming from the poorest regions of Ghana, like the five northern regions.

“Furthermore, Ghana has now attained gender parity in senior high-school education as more girls than boys have accessed the programme. Also, the increase in enrollment has not resulted in a reduction in quality.

“In fact, the performance of the students in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination last year shows that the free SHS beneficiaries attained the best results since 2014. The policy has therefore been a resounding success. That does not mean it is without problems. There is more to be done to improve it.”