Free SHS: 2-track system 'pragmatic' - Baako

The two-track Senior High Schools (SHS) system is a pragmatic solution to the challenges facing the implementation of the free SHS programme, Abdul-Malik Kwaku Baako, Editor-in-Chief of the New Crusading Guide, has said.

He has, therefore, asked the government to remain focused on the programme and not be side-tracked by critics.

Government has explained that the two-track system is meant to cater for the spike in enrolment into Senior High Schools (SHSs) due to the free SHS policy.

The full implementation of the new system is expected to cost GHS323million. The objective of the double-track system is to create room to accommodate all the students, reduce class size, increase contact hours and increase the number of holidays.

The system is similar to the academic calendar used in the universities. With this system, each track will be in school for specific days for each semester and go on vacation and come back for the second semester. While the first track is in school, the second track will be on vacation and vice-versa.

Speaking on Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana on Thursday, 26 July, Mr Baako said: “The double-intake is a pragmatic solution to the challenges.

“As for the argument, it will go on; those who will do the propaganda and all the rest are allowed and that is not where government’s focus should be, that is not where the stakeholders – those who are really managing the programme – should be.

“They should not be worried at all about the criticisms, indeed, some of the criticisms could be taken on board to help you fine-tune the programme, otherwise, the focus is important for those who are managing the programme.

“The bottom-line is we will get the chance to do an impact analysis when it has gone on for a while and when they are passing out. For now, I vote for the double-intake, it is a pragmatic solution to the challenge the state is facing.”