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Presidential aspirant Alan Kyerematen has laid out an ambitious plan to reform Ghana’s Free Senior High School (SHS) programme, focusing on sustainability and creating structured pathways for graduates to transition into higher education or the workforce. Speaking during the Presidential Encounters 2024 on November 22, hosted by the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, Kyerematen emphasized that while Free SHS is a commendable initiative, it requires critical adjustments to maximize its potential.
“The Free SHS programme is a great policy, and I doubt whether any government would discontinue it,” he affirmed. However, he cautioned that the current implementation leaves graduates uncertain about their next steps. “After Free SHS, what next?” he asked, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach that addresses both education and life after school.
Key Areas of Reform Under the GTP
Kyerematen’s proposed Great Transformational Plan (GTP) targets five main areas: financial sustainability, infrastructure enhancement, curriculum development, teacher training, and post-graduation pathways.
1. Financial Sustainability
Kyerematen stressed the importance of identifying stable funding sources to sustain the programme. “Where are we going to find the money to sustain this?” he questioned, urging stakeholders to address the financial challenges to ensure the policy’s longevity.
2. Infrastructure Development
He highlighted the urgent need to address the infrastructure deficits in schools, including classrooms, dormitories, and teaching facilities. Improving these conditions, he noted, is crucial for enhancing the learning experience and delivering quality education.
3. Curriculum Overhaul
Kyerematen challenged the relevance of the current curriculum, questioning whether it prepares students for modern economic demands. “We need to ask ourselves, what are we teaching them under the Free SHS program? Is it helping them transition into the world of work?” he asked.
4. Teacher Capacity Building
He emphasized the importance of training educators and non-teaching staff to ensure effective teaching and school management. “Strengthening the capacity of teachers and administrative staff is critical for the success of the Free SHS programme,” he stated.
5. Post-Graduation Pathways
To bridge the gap between education and employment, Kyerematen proposed a one-year compulsory apprenticeship and internship programme. This initiative will offer hands-on training and certification in entrepreneurial and artisanal skills, enabling graduates to discover their talents and align with market demands.
Additional Pathways for Graduates
Kyerematen introduced innovative measures to support graduates in their transition:
Entrepreneurship Support: Graduates interested in starting businesses will have access to government programs offering funding, mentorship, and resources.
Health Screening Booths Scheme: This initiative will allow graduates to operate health booths on a work-and-pay basis, addressing healthcare accessibility while providing employment opportunities.
Security Service Recruitment: For those pursuing careers in national security, Kyerematen plans to establish dedicated pathways for recruitment.
Higher Education Financial Support: Graduates aspiring to pursue tertiary education will receive financial aid to eliminate economic barriers.
Digital Transformation: Free Satellite Internet
Kyerematen unveiled a groundbreaking policy to mainstream digitalization, pledging to establish 100,000 free satellite internet hotspots nationwide. These hotspots, strategically located at vantage points, including all secondary schools, aim to provide seamless connectivity. “This initiative will revolutionize teaching and learning, while significantly benefiting the youth, particularly content creators burdened by the high cost of data,” he noted.
Strengthening Basic Education
Kyerematen also criticized the neglect of basic and pre-basic education, stressing their foundational importance. “We talk about Free SHS as if the foundation doesn’t matter. Strengthening basic and pre-basic education is critical to ensure students are fully prepared for SHS and beyond,” he argued.
A Vision for Empowerment
Alan Kyerematen’s proposed reforms aim to transform the Free SHS programme into a sustainable, impactful policy that prepares students for success in life. Through his GTP, he envisions a system that not only delivers access to education but also equips students with the skills, tools, and opportunities needed to thrive in a competitive world. “No graduate should be left behind,” he concluded, urging Ghanaians to embrace his vision for a brighter future.
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