Ghanaian electorates will head to the polls to elect the next leader who will run the affairs of the country for the next four years, as stipulated by the 1992 constitution, in less than 100 days.
As the countdown to the elections continues, political parties are intensifying their campaigns to sway undecided voters and solidify their base.
In their campaign efforts, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has been particularly focused on promoting their achievements and future plans, with a strong emphasis on their educational policies.
Among the key elements of their campaign is the promise of continuing and expanding the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, a cornerstone of the party’s educational reform agenda.
With this in mind The Independent Ghana interacted with some citizens regarding their voting choices come December 7 2024.
It appears the Free SHS has become a trump card for Dr Bawumia and the NPP to win the 2024 presidential seat.
Ghanaian truck driver Asmanu Yaya expressed that he has both enjoyed and continues to benefit from the Free SHS policy as his four children are beneficiaries.
Two of them, he said are done with school and the others are yet to complete. Not having a formal education, Yaya says he would let the opportunity slip by his children. He will vote for a leader who has helped him lift the financial burden to see his children through school.
“I’ve personally benefited from these policies. I have four children—two have finished school, and two are still attending. Without Free SHS, I might not have been able to afford their education. That’s why I’m voting for the NPP and Dr. Bawumia this year,” Mr Yaya indicated
Food vendor at the Achimota station, Madam Asmawu said she has plans to vote again and for the the NPP because Free SHS has made it possible for families, regardless of their financial status, to send their children to school.
“Free SHS has allowed both rich and poor families to send their children to school, which is a huge benefit. Despite the tough economy, this policy has made a real difference. So I have a reason to vote for them again,” Madam Asmawu stated.
Another citizen by name Richard Osei, expressed his gratitude for the introduction of the Free SHS, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) schools. He noted that these initiatives have improved access to education and enhanced the quality of education.
The Free Senior High School (Free SHS) education policy in Ghana is a government initiative introduced in the 2017 September Presidential administration of Nana Akufo-Addo.
The policy’s origination began as part of the President’s presidential campaign during Ghana’s 2016 election period, and has become an essential part of Ghana’s educational system.
And now, despite the hardship Ghanaians are facing in the country under the NPP, several Ghanaians seem to have no choice than to give the NPP another 4 years.