Education think tank Africa Education Watch (EduWatch) has called on Parliament to delay the introduction of the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) Bill to allow for more comprehensive consultations with key stakeholders.

In a statement issued on December 13, the organisation expressed concerns over the government’s plan to present the Bill on December 16, arguing that the process has not involved adequate engagement with relevant groups.

EduWatch emphasized the need for inclusivity and transparency in shaping policies that impact Ghana’s education system. The group urged Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum to initiate discussions with education experts, civil society organisations, and parent-teacher associations to ensure that the Bill reflects broad support.

The organisation stressed that such consultations are crucial for identifying potential issues with the policy and building national backing for the Free SHS programme.

“We call on Parliament to defer deliberations on the Bill until proper consultations are held. In the spirit of inclusive governance, we urge the Minister of Education to convene stakeholder meetings involving education groups, development partners, parents, and teachers,” EduWatch stated.

The Free Senior High School Bill, 2024, drafted by the Ministry of Education, aims to provide legal backing for the provision of free and compulsory Senior High School education.

Source:TheDotNews