Double-Intake SHS Policy Requires Broad-Based Consultation

Lots of criticisms have arisen since government announced the implementation of a “double-intake” system to mitigate the challenges facing the Free SHS (FSHS) programme.

Amongst those who have punched holes into the yet-to-happen policy is the Ghana National Education Campaign Coalition (GNECC).

Obviously not pleased with government’s decision to hastily operationalise this strategy, the GNECC has called on government to embark on a better and broader consultation before implementation.

Speaking at a press conference held in Accra, yesterday, the Executive Council Chair of the group, Mr. Bright Appiah said there was not enough consultation on the implementation of the double track system.

“A policy that affects millions requires broad-based consultation with teachers who will be the implementers as well as parents and students who are directly affected by such policies.

“Merely informing civil society through the media is not consultation and government must be mindful of the history of failures associated with secretly packaged policies,” Mr. Appiah said.

The group among other things is demanding with urgency that government begins all necessary stakeholders’ engagement to ensure the policy is one worth implementing.

The GNECC is also calling for a clear and outlined policy framework that will guide the programme.

This, he said would allow for proper criticism or commendation of the strategy.

No Politics

The group further bemoaned attempts by some individuals and corporate bodies to drag the discuss of education into the muddy pool of politics.

They argue that the issue at hand involves the fundamental rights of millions of children and must not be taken lightly.

“Rather, the discussion should be done with the aim of educating the public and galvanising to enhance the implementation of the FSHS policy in line with SGD4,” Mr. Appiah noted.

SHS flawed from birth

At their presentation, the GNECC stated that the FSHS policy had been flawed from its inception.

“No country has ever implemented a free SHS policy where 70% of students were boarders,” the GNECC chair said.

He therefore advised government to switch to a 70% day and 30% boarding system which according to him, will reduce the cost of financing by at least 50% as well as a reduction of pressure on existing infrastructure.

Outlining some of the pitfalls that may come with the double track system, Mr. Appiah said the new system would extinguish social activities and limit education to the classroom.

“This means that physical education, social activities and even the avenue that we raise certain sports men and women would be extinguished,” the GNECC chair lamented.

By: Grace Ablewor Sogbey/ [email protected]