Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has clarified that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, did not oppose the Free Senior High School (SHS) Bill in 2016 as claimed by the minority.
On the floor of parliament, Afenyo-Markin engaged in a heated argument with Minority Chief Whip, Governs Kwame Agbodza, and explained that Dr. Bawumia’s position at the time was for the policy to be implemented before a bill was passed to make it a law.
The Majority Leader’s clarification comes after the Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, stated that Dr. Bawumia was on record for opposing the legislation of the Free SHS policy. However, Afenyo-Markin’s explanation suggests that Dr. Bawumia’s stance was misinterpreted.
The President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government initiated the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) education policy in September 2017. Originating from the President’s campaign during the 2016 election period, it has since become an integral component of Ghana’s educational framework.
Aligned with the United Nations’ modified Sustainable Development Goals, the policy emphasizes core principles of access, equity, and equality, aiming to ensure inclusive and comprehensive learning experiences for all students.
To ensure the effectiveness, productivity, and ongoing development of the policy, various politicians and social workers have been assigned responsibilities. These leaders hail from diverse governmental departments, including Ghana’s Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, Ghana Education Service, and Ghana’s Ministry of Education.
