Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Acting Spokesperson for President John Mahama, has emphasized the government’s commitment to it’s promise of free tuition for first-year university students.
The MP for Abura Asebu Kwamankese noted that he believes Ghanaians will not be upset if the policy is delayed beyond this year.
In an interview , Mr. Kwakye Ofosu expressed confidence that, as a new government, Ghanaians would grant them enough time to ensure the successful implementation of the policy.
“Everybody will agree that we don’t have ministers yet, so even if we say tomorrow, it is not a realistic expectation. Ghanaians are slow to anger, and they will give you a long time.”
“They are also reasonable people and know that as a new government, the circumstances don’t permit you to do certain things. I don’t think they will hold it against you; they will give you sufficient time,” he said.
However, the Minister of State-designate for Government Communications acknowledged that any unnecessary delays by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government could have consequences.
“Except, for instance, if we don’t do it after a year without any reasonable excuse, then Ghanaians will take action.
“So really, I don’t think the problem is about the fact of unfulfilled promises but the failure to accept responsibility,” he emphasized.
Ahead of the 2024 election, President Mahama pledged to introduce tuition-free education for first-year students in public universities.
He emphasized that the policy is designed to enhance access to higher education, especially for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
However, while universities have already begun their admission processes, the policy is yet to be implemented.
Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has assured that students who have already paid their fees will be reimbursed once the policy takes effect.
