Government’s refusal to review free SHS not supported by literature – Dr. Apaak

Dr. Clement Apaak, the Member of Parliament for Builsa South and Deputy Ranking Member on the Education Committee, has voiced his disapproval of the government’s stance against suggestions to review the free Senior High School (SHS) policy.

During an interview on the Citi Breakfast Show on Citi FM, Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum stated that the free SHS program requires improvements rather than a review.

In response, Dr. Apaak released a statement describing the government’s decision and its appointees as “purely political and not supported by literature on policy implementation.”

Former President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his commitment to reviewing the free SHS policy if the National Democratic Congress (NDC) comes into power.

Dr. Apaak believes that the government opposes reviewing the policy simply because the idea was initially proposed by Mr. Mahama.

“The position taken by the Minister and other government officials is purely political and not supported by literature on policy implementation or best practices,” Dr. Apaak stated.

Dr. Apaak argues that the challenges revealed during seven years of implementing the free SHS policy are numerous and complex, and a comprehensive review is needed to address them effectively.

He emphasizes that a review is a formal assessment that will provide guidance on areas that require improvement. All stakeholders, except for the Minister for Education and other government appointees, have called for a review. Even external partners, such as the IMF, have recommended a review of the policy.

Furthermore, Dr. Apaak highlights that it is standard practice to periodically review programs and policies. The government’s opposition to the legitimate and justified call for a review is solely because it was initiated by John Dramani Mahama.

Dr. Apaak asserts that the future NDC government, led by John Dramani Mahama, will conduct the necessary review of the policy in order to improve it comprehensively. As announced by the NDC Flagbearer, a national stakeholders forum will be convened to assess the policy and provide recommendations for improvement.

Dr. Apaak also criticizes the Minister for Education for incorrectly defining a review as equivalent to cancellation. He argues that as an education Minister, he should have had a better understanding of the concept, as review does not mean cancellation.

SOURCE: Coverghana.com.gh