Professor Enoch Opoku Antwi, Dean of Academic City University, has sparked a crucial conversation about campaign promises versus policies in Africa.
Speaking at YAFO Institute Free SHS Policy Dialogue in Accra, he mentioned that simply making promises doesn’t equate to policy – a policy requires a clear design of costs and revenue components.
He cited Ghana’s Free Senior High School (SHS) program as an example, highlighting that the government borrowed GHS 761 billion, with the program costing GHS 10 billion over six years, which accounts for only 1.3% of the borrowed amount. This raises questions about the allocation of the remaining funds.
Professor Antwi emphasized the need for transparency, stressing that governments must provide a blueprint for raising and utilizing funds to ensure accountability. This is particularly important for continuity and accountability when governments change.
The Ministry of Education’s initiatives, such as the Education Strategic Plan (ESP 2018-2030), aim to transform teaching and learning. However, Professor Antwi’s comments underscore the importance of fiscal responsibility and transparency in implementing these programs.
Source: oyerepafmonline.com/Bernard K Dadzie, Greater Accra Region
