The Minority in Parliament has disclosed that the government owes more than GH₵6 billion to various companies, individuals, and organizations connected to the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy.
Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Wednesday, July 17, Peter Nortsu Kotoe, Ranking Member on the Education Committee of Parliament, highlighted significant financial challenges facing the Free SHS program, despite its positive impact on access to secondary education.
“The Free SHS program has indeed provided access to secondary education for many who would not have had the opportunity due to costs,” Peter Nortsu Kotoe acknowledged. “However, the financial challenges are mounting. Current information indicates the government owes over GH₵6 billion related to Free SHS.”
Mr Kotoe also addressed issues with the ‘One Student One Laptop’ initiative, revealing that the government has yet to reimburse over GH₵300 million spent on procuring GH₵1.3 million tablets. “The supplier, who took out a loan at a cost of GH₵37 million, has been paid less than 10% of the amount owed. This delays payments and jeopardizes the business.”
In addition, Mr Nortsu Kotoe highlighted that the government owes the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) GH₵224 million, hindering preparations for the upcoming WASSCE exams scheduled to start in August. “The government has not released any funds to WAEC, and this debt affects their ability to function properly,” he noted.
The Minority urged the government to address these financial obligations to prevent further harm to businesses and educational institutions in the country.
