Ghana’s newly appointed Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has wasted no time in addressing crucial issues within the education sector.
In his first official visit to the Ministry of Education on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, he emphasized the urgent need for validation of data regarding beneficiaries of the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) program.
Furthermore, he announced plans for a National Education Conference aimed at comprehensive reforms.
Minister Iddrisu, who was recently sworn in by President John Dramani Mahama, highlighted the discrepancy between figures he had gathered and those publicly cited.
“My research indicates that the number stands at no more than 3.9 million students between 2017 and 2023. However, there are public claims and even parliamentary records suggesting 5.1 million beneficiaries. We need to validate this data to ensure clarity and accountability,” he stated.
The Minister clarified that this call for validation is not intended to discredit existing figures but rather to establish a credible foundation for future policymaking.
He stressed that “Accurate data is essential for effective policy-making, and I am committed to ensuring that we rely on verified information as we move forward.”
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In addition to the data validation effort, Haruna Iddrisu revealed plans to convene a National Education Conference.
This conference will bring together educators, policymakers, civil society organizations, and other key stakeholders to engage in critical analysis of Ghana’s current education system.
The objective, he explained, is to “critically analyse our current education system and propose solutions to address the gaps. Our aim is to ensure that education in Ghana is reformed to guarantee quality and relevance at all levels.”
The Minister also reiterated his commitment to President Mahama’s vision of making education accessible, relevant, and of high quality.
He affirmed that “Education must be accessible to every Ghanaian, but it must also be relevant and of a standard that prepares our citizens for the challenges of the modern world.”
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The proposed National Education Conference is expected to be a significant step toward shaping a more sustainable and impactful education system for the country.
Minister Iddrisu concluded by stating that, “The people of Ghana deserve an education system that is not only inclusive but also transformative. Together, we can achieve this.”