The National Democratic Congress has announced an education policy dubbed the “No Fee Stress Policy” as part of their 2024 Manifesto Launch promises in the upcoming December 7 elections.
Addressing the party during the manifesto launch, the NDC flag bearer, John Mahama stated that the policy aims to take away the stress of paying academic user fees from students. “They cannot afford to pay their academic user fees, and so we will take that stress off them.
Under this policy, first-year tertiary students will not be required to pay fees. Instead, the government will provide grants to universities to cover these costs. “We will give the money to the student loan, and the student loan will be paid to the universities as a grant, not as a loan,” John Mahama explained.
NDC assured universities that this policy will not affect their internally generated funds. Additionally, the government plans to increase subvention to public universities to improve quality and learning.
In a move to promote inclusivity, the NDC has announced that persons with disabilities will receive free tertiary education. Furthermore, the existing “Pad Loan” initiative, started by Professor Naana Jane with World Bank support, will continue, providing free sanitary pads to schoolgirls.
“We are proud of the pad loan,” It will allow our young girls who are going through their periods to be neat and hygienic, and not to miss school, be able to go to school all year round.” John Mahama added.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Tracy Afia Ahensima Danso
