Haruna Iddrisu, the Minister-designate for Education, clarified the nuances of President John Mahama’s proposed free tertiary education policy during his parliamentary vetting. Addressing concerns about parental contributions, Iddrisu emphasized the policy’s flexibility, assuring parents who wish to continue paying their wards’ tuition fees that they are welcome to do so. This optional payment structure acknowledges the diverse financial capacities of families and allows those willing and able to contribute to continue doing so.
Crucially, Iddrisu outlined the significant financial commitment required from the state to implement this ambitious policy. He estimated the cost to be approximately ₵345 million, a substantial investment aimed at broadening access to higher education. This funding, he explained, would be channeled directly to participating universities, covering the tuition costs of first-year students. This direct funding mechanism streamlines the process and ensures that resources reach the intended beneficiaries efficiently.
Furthermore, Iddrisu addressed the issue of fairness regarding students who had already paid their tuition fees before the policy’s implementation. He assured these students and their families that refunds would be issued. This commitment to equitable treatment demonstrates a thoughtful approach to policy implementation and minimizes potential financial disparities among students.
The proposed policy’s core objective, as highlighted by Iddrisu, is to enhance accessibility to tertiary education. By removing the financial barrier of tuition fees for first-year students, the policy aims to create a more inclusive higher education landscape. This move is anticipated to benefit students from various socio-economic backgrounds, particularly those who may have previously been deterred by the cost of higher education.
The proposed funding mechanism, with direct disbursement to universities, ensures transparency and accountability. It also simplifies the process for students, eliminating the need for individual applications or complex administrative procedures. This streamlined approach reinforces the government’s commitment to efficient and effective utilization of public funds.
Moreover, the policy’s flexibility regarding parental contributions allows for a shared responsibility model. While the government shoulders the primary financial burden, parents who can and wish to contribute retain the option to do so. This collaborative approach recognizes the shared interest in investing in the future of young people and fosters a sense of collective responsibility for educational advancement. The commitment to refunding fees to those who have already paid demonstrates a dedication to fairness and equitable treatment. This proactive measure ensures that no student is disadvantaged by the timing of the policy’s implementation and reinforces the principle of equal access to educational opportunities.
