Video: Mahama To SHS Headmasters: You're Free To Discuss Your Challenges Now

President-elect John Dramani Mahama has urged Ghana's Senior High School (SHS) Headmasters to be more transparent and collaborative, and to publicly discuss the issues their institutions face. He emphasized that his government is dedicated to collaborating with appropriate parties to address these concerns and develop long-term solutions.

Mahama's appeal comes as schools face growing financial constraints, especially as the 2025 academic year approaches. The Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) has recently asked the Ministry of Education to reconsider the planned reopening date of January 3, 2025, until outstanding financial obligations are met. The association has highlighted persistent financial challenges, including outstanding arrears, which it thinks may impede the smooth reopening of schools. They have stressed the importance of resolving these financial concerns so that schools are ready to welcome kids and provide a conducive learning environment.

In response, Mahama, who is slated to be inaugurated as president on January 7, 2025, posted a video message encouraging SHS principals to express their concerns. He guaranteed that once in office, his government would work with all key parties to address the issues confronting the country's secondary schools.

Mahama also restated the position of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), which has long attacked President Akufo-Addo's administration for allegedly limiting debate regarding the challenges schools confront under the Free Senior High School policy. The NDC has vowed to address these concerns and provide a forum for school officials to publicly discuss the challenges their institutions confront.

As the academic year begins, Mahama's appeal for transparency provides hope to school administrators and the general public as they await the incoming government's efforts to address these serious challenges.