Joycelyn Tetteh, Member of Parliament for North Dayi, has criticized the Free SHS policy, describing it as a failing initiative.
She acknowledged that it has offered some benefits but noted that its poor planning and numerous shortcomings require immediate attention and review.
Speaking to Bismark Brown on Happy 98.9FM’s Epa Hoa Daben show she said, “Although you don’t carry money to go and pay school fees because it has been catered for, the other things like the prospectus and provisions are also expensive and sometimes prevents the children from going to school because they cannot afford it”.
She disclosed that, a couple of times she has had to buy mattresses, trunks, provisions and even give some students transportation because after gaining admission, the school tells them they won’t be allowed in if they don’t have certain things some of the parents are unable to afford.
“Because it is free, it is open to everyone even those who never thought of going now have an opportunity to go so we need to review the concept of the free SHS else I don’t see the impact of it”she said.
Jocelyn Tetteh believes that, some of the children are better off in vocational school or learning a skill but have abandoned the option and opted to go to school although they have no interest.
Responding to the aspect that needs to be reviewed she noted that, if the economy is stabilized it will be easier for most parents to also provide some support for their children to attend the school comfortably and this will also lessen the burden of the government.
“One aspect the NDC plans to review is the aspect of food. We will make sure that the children are well fed and I know the newly appointed education minister will see to it that this happens”.
“Teachers must also be motivated by being paid well and appreciated for their impact and sacrifices because they impact knowledge in the children so they need to be treated well. When they are well catered for it will be extended to the children they teach. If these two areas are tackled the policy will be better than it already is” she emphasized.
