Free SHS expansion was not matched with enough infrastructure – Haruna Iddrisu

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has attributed part of the blame for challenges faced by the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) to the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) government under Nana Akufo-Addo. He stated that while Akufo-Addo's introduction of Free Senior High School (Free SHS) significantly expanded access to secondary education, the policy was not supported by adequate infrastructure to accommodate the significant increase in student numbers.

During a discussion on JoyNews’ Newsfile, Iddrisu emphasized that the lack of infrastructure was the core issue behind the current placement crisis. He highlighted that the increase in students seeking admission far outpaced the available facilities, thereby creating immense pressure on senior high schools nationwide. The minister also pointed out that this disparity has become a national challenge, but urged that the previous administration share in the responsibility for not adequately expanding infrastructure to meet the rising enrolment.

Iddrisu explained that his government is currently pursuing a new expansion programme, which includes seeking $300 million from the World Bank. Of this funding, GH¢2.8 billion will specifically be allocated towards infrastructure expansion. This initiative aims to construct 10 new Category A model senior high schools across the country, with a focus on deprived regions such as western North Oti, Kasoa, and Nima.

The government has directed these new schools to be established in urban areas, with a particular emphasis on boarding facilities.