The Impact of Free SHS in Ghanaian High Schools

The introduction of Free Senior High School (Free SHS) in Ghana by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo in 2017 marked a significant turning point in the country’s educational landscape.

This policy was aimed at making High education accessible to all Ghanaian children, regardless of their socio-economic background.

While it has garnered praise for democratizing education, it has also faced criticism for its impact on the quality of education. This article delves into the impact, advantages, and disadvantages of the Free SHS policy and its implications for Ghanaian High education.

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The Impact of Free SHS in Ghana

The Free SHS policy has had a profound impact on education in Ghana. On one hand, it has increased enrollment and reduced financial barriers for many families. On the other hand, the policy has strained resources, raising concerns about the quality of education.

Positive Impacts

1. Increased Enrollment
   • The policy has significantly increased the number of students attending senior high schools. According to the Ghana Education Service (GES), enrollment rose from 830,000 in 2016 to over 1.2 million by 2021.
   • Children from low-income families now have access to High education, which was previously unaffordable for many.
2. Reduced Dropout Rates
   • By eliminating fees, the policy has reduced the financial burden on parents, encouraging students to stay in school longer.
3. Enhanced Social Equity
   • The Free SHS policy promotes social equity by giving equal educational opportunities to all children, irrespective of their socio-economic background.
4. Human Resource Development
   • The policy has laid a foundation for a more educated workforce, which is crucial for national development.

Negative Impacts

1. Strain on Infrastructure
   • The surge in enrollment has overwhelmed existing school facilities, leading to overcrowded classrooms and insufficient dormitories.
   • Many schools lack adequate teaching materials, furniture, and laboratories to cater to the increased student population.
2. Compromised Quality of Education
   • Overcrowding and limited resources have impacted teacher-to-student ratios, reducing the effectiveness of teaching and learning.
   • Some stakeholders argue that the rush to accommodate more students has led to a decline in the overall quality of education.
3. Funding Challenges
   • The government’s ability to sustain the program has been questioned, with delays in disbursing funds to schools causing operational difficulties.

Advantages of Free SHS

1. Financial Relief for Parents

• Families, especially those in rural and low-income areas, no longer bear the burden of paying school fees, making education accessible to all.

2. Universal Access to Education

• The policy ensures that no child is denied education due to financial constraints, fulfilling Ghana’s constitutional mandate for free compulsory basic education.

3. National Development

• By educating more people, Free SHS contributes to building a skilled and knowledgeable population essential for national growth.

4. Gender Equality

• The policy has improved access to education for girls, reducing gender disparities in High school enrollment.

5. Promotion of Meritocracy

• Students are now admitted based on academic performance rather than their financial status, fostering a merit-based educational system.

Disadvantages of Free SHS

1. Decline in Educational Standards

• Overcrowded classrooms, inadequate resources, and unmotivated teachers have contributed to declining academic performance in some schools.

2. Overburdened Teachers

• Teachers are struggling with larger class sizes, leading to fatigue and reduced attention to individual students.

3. Limited Focus on Quality

• The policy’s focus on quantity has diverted attention from the need to improve the quality of education, including teacher training and curriculum enhancement.

4. Unintended Social Inequities

• Elite schools with better facilities tend to attract more affluent students, while less-resourced schools struggle with overcrowding and poor performance.

5. Sustainability Issues

• The financial burden of Free SHS on the government has raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of the program.

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Has Free SHS Increased or Decreased Student Performance?

The impact of Free SHS on student performance has been mixed:

1. Positive Outcomes:
   • Enrollment of talented but underprivileged students has increased, leading to the discovery of potential in areas previously underserved.
   • Some schools continue to perform well in national exams despite the challenges.
2. Negative Outcomes:
   • Overcrowding and limited resources have affected the performance of many students, especially in less-endowed schools.
   • Critics argue that the policy’s implementation overlooked the need for infrastructure development and teacher recruitment, compromising education quality.

The Free SHS policy in Ghana has undoubtedly democratized access to High education, offering hope to thousands of students who would otherwise have been excluded. However, the program has not been without its challenges, particularly in maintaining the quality of education amid increased enrollment.

To ensure the long-term success of Free SHS, the government must address infrastructure deficits, improve teacher-to-student ratios, and invest in quality education. With the right measures, the program can strike a balance between access and quality, contributing to a brighter future for Ghana’s youth and the nation at large.

Also Read: Free SHS: Will Future Generations Prove Nana Addo Right?

The Best 10 Senior High Schools (SHS) in Ghana

Ghana boasts some of the finest Senior High Schools (SHS)in Africa, renowned for academic excellence, discipline, holistic development, and extracurricular activities. Choosing the right school is a critical decision for parents and students alike, as the quality of education and training shapes the future of young minds.

Below, we highlight the 10 best Senior High Schools (SHS) in Ghana, focusing on criteria such as quality education, student performance, discipline, extracurricular opportunities, and overall development.

1. Wesley Girls’ High School (Cape Coast)

Wesley Girls’ High School consistently ranks as one of the best High schools in Ghana. Known for its rigorous academic environment, the school produces top performers in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) annually.

• Quality Education: Highly qualified teachers and a structured curriculum ensure stellar academic performance.
• Discipline: The institution emphasizes strong moral and spiritual values.
• Extracurriculars: Wesley Girls excels in debate, drama, and athletics, with students winning national awards.

As Wesley Girls’ High School celebrates over a century and a half of excellence in education, its legacy continues to inspire and uplift generations of young women across Ghana and beyond. Rooted in its founding principles of academic excellence and moral fortitude, WGHS remains a shining example of the transformative power of education in shaping lives and shaping the future.

2. Achimota School (Accra)

Achimota School, fondly called “Motown,” is one of Ghana’s oldest and most prestigious institutions. It has a legacy of producing prominent leaders across various fields.

• Quality Education: Achimota offers diverse academic programs, fostering critical thinking.
• Training and Behavior: Students are groomed to become independent thinkers and leaders.
• Sports and Arts: Known for excelling in sports, music, and drama competitions.

3. Presbyterian Boys’ High School (PRESEC) – Legon

PRESEC is a powerhouse in Ghanaian education, known for its unparalleled academic performance and strong Christian values.

• Academic Excellence: PRESEC has won the National Science and Math Quiz (NSMQ) a record seven times.
• Discipline: The school emphasizes respect, integrity, and hard work.
• Extracurriculars: Its students actively participate in science fairs, debates, and athletics.

4. Holy Child School (Cape Coast)

Holy Child School is celebrated for its commitment to academic excellence and holistic student development.

• Quality Education: Offers a balanced mix of sciences, arts, and vocational studies.
• Behavior and Discipline: The school enforces strict discipline, ensuring a safe learning environment.
• Extracurricular Activities: Dominates in choral music, drama, and volleyball tournaments.

5. St. Augustine’s College (Cape Coast)

St. Augustine’s College is synonymous with academic brilliance and a disciplined environment.

• Academic Performance: It consistently ranks high in WASSCE results.
• Leadership Training: The school grooms students for leadership roles.
• Sports: The institution boasts strong football and basketball teams, often winning inter-school competitions.

6. Mfantsipim School (Cape Coast)

Mfantsipim, the oldest boys’ High school in Ghana, is famous for its academic rigor and historical significance.

• Quality Education: Known for excellent teaching and resourceful libraries.
• Discipline and Independence: Students are trained to work independently and responsibly.
• Extracurriculars: The school excels in drama, athletics, and quiz competitions.

7. Aburi Girls’ High School (Aburi)

Aburi Girls, located in the serene hills of Aburi, offers a nurturing and empowering environment for young women.

• Academic Excellence: Regularly produces top-performing students in national exams.
• Discipline: Focus on grooming disciplined and well-rounded individuals.
• Arts and Sports: Students shine in poetry, drama, and track events.

8. Opoku Ware School (Kumasi)

Opoku Ware School (OWASS) is a top-tier boys’ school known for producing exceptional students.

• Academic Performance: Consistently ranks among the top-performing schools in WASSCE.
• Discipline and Behavior: Enforces a culture of respect and responsibility.
• Sports and Entertainment: OWASS is a leader in athletics and choral music.

9. Ghana International School (Accra)

Ghana International School (GIS) stands out for offering a globally recognized curriculum and fostering innovation.

• Global Standards: GIS prepares students for international exams such as IGCSE and IB.
• Training and Independence: Students develop critical thinking and leadership skills.
• Extracurricular Activities: From robotics to arts, GIS offers a wide range of extracurricular programs.

10. Adisadel College (Cape Coast)

Adisadel College, also known as “Adisco,” is a prestigious boys’ school with a strong emphasis on excellence and discipline.

• Quality Education: Boasts an outstanding track record in science and technology.
• Behavior and Independence: Encourages students to be self-reliant and innovative.
• Sports and Competitions: Excels in rugby, basketball, and quiz competitions.

Also Read: WASSCE Results Delayed Due to Education Ministry’s GHs118m Debt – WAEC

Why These Schools Stand Out

These schools are not only known for academic performance but also for instilling discipline, promoting creativity, and encouraging extracurricular excellence. They produce well-rounded individuals capable of thriving in any field.

• Discipline: A hallmark of these institutions, ensuring students are well-behaved and focused.
• Training and Independence: Students are prepared for leadership roles and taught to work with minimal supervision.
• Extracurricular Activities: Programs in sports, drama, debate, and arts foster holistic development.

Choosing the right senior High school is crucial for academic success and personal growth. These 10 schools have proven to be the best in Ghana, offering a blend of quality education, discipline, and extracurricular opportunities. Parents and students can be assured of an enriching experience and a solid foundation for future success.

Quick Fact:

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