"Corrupt and wasteful": Mahama defends decision to abolish free SHS Secretariat

Mahama Defends Decision to Abolish Free SHS Secretariat

John Mahama, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, is defending his plan to abolish the Free Senior High School (SHS) Secretariat. He claims the Secretariat is corrupt and wasteful. Mahama plans to transfer the free SHS policy management to the Ghana Education Service (GES).

In an interview with Ghana Broadcasting Corporation on November 29, 2024, he expressed concerns about mismanagement within the current framework. He believes that GES can provide a better structure for overseeing the free SHS policy.

Mahama reaffirmed his commitment to improving the Free SHS policy if re-elected. He stated, "The Free SHS policy has come to stay." He denied claims that he opposes this initiative and emphasized his desire to enhance it.

Additionally, Mahama supports including private schools in the free SHS program. He noted that many private schools have adequate resources and infrastructure for this initiative. This statement was made during the launch of the 2024 annual week celebration of the Ghana National Association of Private Schools.