The Education Minister-designate, Haruna Iddrisu, has disclosed that approximately GH₵345 million will be required to fully roll out the government’s free tuition initiative for first-year tertiary students.
During his appearance before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on January 20, 2025, the Tamale South MP emphasized that the initiative is designed to enhance access to higher education for students nationwide.
He indicated that the funds would be allocated to cover the tuition costs for newly enrolled students, ensuring that higher education is accessible to all.
Haruna Iddrisu also revealed that the funds will be distributed directly to the participating institutions.
Furthermore, he assured that students who have already made tuition payments will receive reimbursements, ensuring the initiative remains equitable for everyone.
“The country will require about ₵345 million for the population of students who enter tertiary institutions, that is what the state will be required to do. We intend to provide that money to the affected universities, at least, to make refunds to those who have already paid fees,” he stated.
He additionally underscored that the new policy will offer greater flexibility to parents, giving those who prefer to pay fees the option to do so within the framework set forth by the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
“The beauty of this is that parents who are willing to pay can do so under this policy that has been introduced by the NDC,” he stated.
The announcement follows the NDC’s commitment during their 2024 campaign to introduce the free tertiary tuition policy, which seeks to alleviate the financial strain on students and their families while expanding access to higher education.
In his remarks, the minister-designate vowed to fully support the policy and ensure its successful execution.
