Suspend Free SHS Bill for Further Engagement by Stakeholders – NAGRAT
Here is the latest update on Free SHS bill discussions and reviews by the incoming government.
The National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) has joined the growing calls for a pause in discussions about the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) Bill, which is scheduled for presentation to Parliament when it reconvenes on December 16.
NAGRAT argues that the bill, among other issues, has not undergone adequate consultation with relevant stakeholders.
The draft legislation, created by the Ministry of Education, aims to establish a legal framework for the continued implementation of the Free SHS programme.
At a press conference in Accra, NAGRAT President Angel Carbonu stressed the importance of wider stakeholder involvement, advocating for more comprehensive consultation before the bill is revisited by Parliament.
“When you hear the phrase Free Senior High School Education, one might assume it only addresses the cost of Free SHS, but the issues in this bill extend far beyond just the government covering the cost of Senior High School education,” Carbonu explained.
He also expressed concerns about the timing of the bill’s consideration, suggesting that it would be inappropriate for the current Parliament to pass laws during its final sessions. “It is our belief that it is unethical for Parliament to enact laws in its closing stages. The incoming Parliament should have the opportunity to review any pending bills, allowing for more thorough discussions with stakeholders before the bill is made law, if it is even necessary,” Carbonu argued.
In addition, Carbonu proposed a more targeted approach to the planned tuition-free initiative for first-year university students by President-elect John Mahama.
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“Rather than applying a blanket policy for Free Senior High School or university tuition, could we consider a more targeted approach? Our country’s financial resources are limited, and we must use them wisely,” he said.
Source: ChannelOneTV