KEY POINTS
- Ghana commits GH¢1 billion to phase out double-track.
- Free SHS will remain a key education policy.
- 100 schools already transitioned to single-track system.
Ghana has set aside GH¢1 billion to phase out the double-track system in senior high schools, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu said.
The investment, to be included in next year’s budget, will come from the Ghana Education Trust Fund and aims to complete stalled projects such as classroom blocks and assembly halls.
Ending the double-track era
The double-track system was rolled out in 2018 to cope with a surge in enrolment following the launch of the Free SHS policy. It further divided students into alternating groups to maximize limited infrastructure.
Iddrisu said the new allocation was central to President John Mahama’s plan to strengthen senior high school education. “We remain committed to ending the double-track system as our contribution to improving the quality of education,” he said.
Infrastructure at the core of policy
The funds will target the infrastructure shortfalls that prompted the double-track system in the first place. According to the minister, 100 schools have already phased out the model, and the remainder will follow starting next year.
Mahama has directed the finance ministry to dedicate GH¢1 billion to the transition. Ensuring that all students are integrated into a single-track system.
Free SHS remains government priority
Iddrisu reiterated that the Free SHS programme will not be scrapped. “Whatever it is, Free SHS is here to stay,” he said, emphasizing its role in improving literacy and numeracy nationwide.
He also added that digital solutions will be explored to expand access to quality education, alongside the investment in physical infrastructure.
