Akufo-Addo’s best legacy is Free SHS – Prof. Mike Oquaye

Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye, former Speaker of Parliament, has stated that President Akufo-Addo's best legacy is the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy.

The Free Senior High School (SHS) policy was introduced by the Akufo-Addo government in 2017. The initiative covers all fees for students admitted to public and vocational senior high schools, including textbooks and meals.

Speaking on Starr Chat with Bola Ray, Prof. Oquaye disclosed that the free SHS, which he considers as Akuffo Addo’s best legacy was envisioned by the president the moment he started campaigning for President. He also added that this initiative stems from Akufo-Addo’s belief that, education is the key to transforming the nation, hence the introduction of the free SHS.

“Free SHS is Akufo-Addo’s best legacy, and free SHS, I must say, was conceptualized by the president the moment he started campaigning for president. Really? But in his first attempt, it was part of his speeches and he never stopped sharing this with me and others, that the way to change this nation is by education and that the human capital is that which will make this nation great. So free SHS is to President Akufo-Addo,” he stated.

When asked what he considers Former president, Mahama’s legacy, he could not pinpoint any public policy initiated by former President Mahama, but acknowledged Mahama’s infrastructure projects, like Ridge Hospital and Terminal 3, as achievements, although unsure if they qualify as a legacy.