The Ghana National Association of Private Schools (GNAPS) has lauded the Ministry of Education for extending the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy to include private senior high schools, describing it as a significant step towards inclusive education and a recognition of the private sector’s contributions to national development.
In a press release issued today, GNAPS also welcomed the government’s recent decision to revise the 30% priority placement policy for Category A public senior high schools. The policy, which previously reserved 30% of spots for students from public basic schools, has now been reduced to 15%. GNAPS acknowledged this move as a “gesture of goodwill and a move in the right direction.”
However, the association reiterated its call for the complete abolition of the policy, arguing that it creates inequality in access to top-tier public schools. GNAPS noted that the policy was implemented without prior consultation with private school stakeholders and has negatively impacted private basic schools across the country – many of which are now facing closure due to declining enrollment.
“The current placement system undermines equal opportunity for all Ghanaian children, regardless of the type of school they attend,” the statement said. “We urge the government to remove the policy entirely and allow placements based solely on merit.”
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GNAPS emphasized its readiness to continue engaging constructively with the Ministry of Education to ensure the smooth integration of private schools into the Free SHS programme and to promote a fair and sustainable education system for all.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/Risa Wyettey
