GNACOPS Hails Inclusion of 60 Private SHSs in Free SHS Policy

The Ghana National Council of Private Schools (GNACOPS) has commended the Government of Ghana for what it calls a “historic and progressive step”—the inclusion of 60 private Senior High Schools in the Free SHS policy for the 2025/2026 academic year.

In a statement issued on July 20, GNACOPS’ National Executive Director, Oberto Nana Kwasi Gyetuah, praised the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service (GES) for acknowledging the vital role private schools play in Ghana’s educational development.

“This move marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s educational transformation and reflects government’s commitment to inclusive, collaborative education delivery,” the release noted.

The selected private schools—spread across all regions—will now be allowed to admit students under the Free SHS programme. GNACOPS encouraged these schools to maintain high standards of transparency, accountability, and academic excellence, acting as ambassadors of private sector capacity in delivering quality education.

The council also acknowledged the concerns of private schools not yet included and assured them that future phases would expand participation. Schools were urged to remain compliant and prepared as the policy scales.

GNACOPS concluded by reaffirming its commitment to advancing private education, influencing national education policy, and supporting inclusive access to quality learning for all Ghanaian children.