The government has announced plans to extend the Free Senior High School (FSHS) policy to include private senior high schools, beginning with the next academic year.
This major policy shift was revealed during the announcement of revised school selection guidelines for candidates preparing to write the upcoming Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).
Under the updated guidelines, students will now be allowed to choose seven schools instead of the previous six. The selection window runs from today, May 27, to June 6.
Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, May 27, Deputy Minister of Education, Dr. Clement Apaak, explained that the expansion is aimed at boosting capacity in the senior high school system and gradually eliminating the double-track system.
“As part of our campaign promise, we have been working diligently to bring private senior high schools on board in the implementation of the Free SHS programme,” Dr. Apaak said.
He emphasized that extensive consultations and engagements have taken place with private school stakeholders, and there is strong commitment on both sides to make the initiative successful.
“We believe that fulfilling this manifesto promise will not only enhance access to quality education but also serve as a key step toward ending the double-track system,” he added.
