Free SHS policy has increased female enrollment by 53.77 % - NAPO tells University of Memphis

Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, Vice-Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), delivered a compelling speech at the University of Memphis, highlighting the transformative power of education and the NPP's commitment to expanding access to quality education in Ghana.

The event, which was attended by faculty members, international students, and members of the media, showcased the ongoing collaboration between the university and the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Foundation, led by the Asantehene.

In his address, Dr. Prempeh lauded the long-standing partnership between the university and the Asantehene's foundation, which has facilitated educational opportunities for Ghanaian students.

He emphasized the significance of building international partnerships in education to benefit the people of Ghana.

Central to Dr. Prempeh's speech was Ghana's Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, which he described as a game-changer in addressing financial barriers to education.

As the former Minister for Education, 'I played a key role in the implementation of the programme in 2017, aimed at ensuring educational access for all Ghanaian children, regardless of their socio-economic background'.

He noted that since the programme's launch, over five million students have benefited from free education, with significant improvements in enrollment and performance across the country.

Dr. Prempeh also highlighted the NPP’s efforts in promoting gender parity and educational equity, particularly through the introduction of the 30% equity policy, which reserves spots for disadvantaged students in Ghana's top schools.

He stated that the Free SHS policy has resulted in a 53.77% increase in female enrollment in SHS by 2024.

In concluding his speech, Dr. Prempeh acknowledged the challenges that remain but expressed confidence that continued efforts to expand educational opportunities will create a brighter future for Ghana.

He left the audience with a hopeful message, stating his aspiration to return to the University of Memphis as the Vice-President of the Republic of Ghana.