A significant majority of Ghanaians, 64.7%, believe the double-track system has reduced the quality of Senior High School (SHS) education. This finding comes from a nationwide poll conducted by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA).
The IEA surveyed 1,062 respondents across all 16 regions in August 2026. Only 20.2% of those surveyed thought the system improved education quality. Another 14.7% saw no effect, while 0.2% offered no opinion. This widespread perception points to deep public concern over the current state of SHS education.
The double-track system began in 2018 following the Free SHS programme. This programme dramatically increased student enrolment. It also put immense pressure on existing school buildings and resources. The system divides students into two groups, attending school at different times. This allows more students to use the same facilities. However, the IEA noted ongoing worries about its impact on education quality. These concerns stem from strained infrastructure and high student-teacher ratios. The system was initially presented as a temporary solution.
The Institute of Economic Affairs stated that the poll presents two key concerns. These are the need to expand SHS infrastructure to improve education quality. The second concern is ensuring that financing such expansion does not further burden public finances. This statement highlights the difficult balance the government faces. It must address educational needs while managing national debt.
The poll also revealed strong public support for expanding school infrastructure. Some 54.3% of respondents backed government borrowing to construct additional schools. This support came despite existing concerns about Ghana's public debt. Among those who felt the double-track system reduced quality, 60.8% supported borrowing for new infrastructure. This indicates a clear public desire for more school buildings. However, 38.4% of respondents opposed more borrowing. This reflects broader worries about the country's financial health. Many prefer alternative funding methods to avoid increasing the public debt burden. The findings renew debate over the sustainability of the double-track system. They also prompt discussions on how to eventually phase it out. Decision-makers will need to weigh public demand for better education against fiscal prudence. Markets will watch how the government plans to fund future educational infrastructure. This includes potential impacts on borrowing costs and the national budget.