The executive director of Educate Africa Institute William Boadi has emphasized that political commitments must focus on tackling Ghana’s urgent challenges through practical and sustainable solutions.
William Boadi, the executive director, expressed skepticism regarding former President John Dramani Mahama’s campaign pledge to eliminate academic fees for first-year university students, deeming it impractical.
While this promise, made by the flagbearer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) could potentially enhance access to higher education, it raises several critical questions about its feasibility and broader impact on Ghana’s educational and employment landscape.
Boadi expressed this during an interview with the Ghana News Agency in response to the commitment made by the former President at the unveiling of the NDC Youth Manifesto in Accra.
Addressing the pressing need for educational access is crucial, yet it must be balanced with ensuring educational quality and support systems for students beyond their first year.
He stated that while eliminating financial obstacles could enhance educational enrollment, it was crucial to uphold high educational standards and offer scholarships or financial assistance to ongoing students as integral elements of a holistic strategy for educational reform.
Boadi emphasized that the successful execution of such a policy depended on obtaining sufficient financial resources, expanding university infrastructure, and guaranteeing long-term sustainability without adversely impacting the national budget or other essential services.
Effective solutions include updating curricula to include practical and industry-relevant skills, fostering partnerships with businesses for internships, and enhancing faculty training. These measures are necessary to ensure that students are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the modern job market.
Boadi emphasized that political commitments must focus on tackling Ghana’s most urgent challenges through practical and sustainable solutions.
He asserted that this approach would guarantee that policies not only pledge access but also elevate the quality and relevance of education, thereby enhancing employment opportunities for graduates.
By focusing on these critical areas, we can work towards a future where Ghana’s educational and employment systems are robust and effective.
Daniel Oppong Kyeremeh, the president of the National Union of Ghana Students, has emphasized the necessity for extensive consultations with educational stakeholders regarding the commitment made.
He urged a thorough examination of the policy, particularly concerning funding and selection processes, to ensure that assistance is directed to those in greatest need.
Additionally, he suggested the potential expansion of the initiative to encompass continuing students facing financial difficulties. On Monday, 12 August 2024, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) presented its 2024 Youth Manifesto, which features a commitment from its flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, to eliminate academic fees for first-year tertiary students, contingent upon his election.
