Ghana's Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu, has disclosed that 42 percent of the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund)'s 2026 locally generated revenue will finance the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) programme. This significant allocation, announced in Parliament on Thursday, June 18, is largely earmarked for student feeding costs under the Free SHS initiative.
The minister expressed concern that this heavy reliance on GETFund resources for Free SHS could strain the Fund's original purpose. GETFund's primary mandate includes infrastructure development, support for basic education, and other strategic interventions.
This development fits into Ghana's ongoing national conversation about sustainable financing for flagship government programmes. The Free SHS policy, while popular, has faced scrutiny regarding its long-term funding mechanisms and impact on the national budget. Data shows government spending on education has consistently been a significant portion of public expenditure, with the Free SHS programme representing a major commitment since its inception in 2017.
Haruna Iddrisu argued the current funding structure might restrict funds for improving learning conditions across the country. He emphasized the necessity of reviewing the financing framework. This review would ensure GETFund continues to prioritize investments that strengthen literacy and numeracy among young learners. The minister believes preserving more of GETFund's resources for infrastructure projects would lead to better long-term educational outcomes.
The implications of this funding decision are substantial for Ghana's education sector. Stakeholders will closely watch how this allocation affects the pace of infrastructure development in schools nationwide. Policymakers will also need to address concerns about resources available for basic education and other critical educational development programmes. Decisions will impact future government spending priorities and the overall health of the nation's educational system.
The Member of Parliament for Atiwa East, Abena Osei-Asare, also questioned using a large share of GETFund for student feeding. She stated that student feeding does not align with GETFund's core responsibilities. This practice, she warned, could reduce funds for essential infrastructure like classroom blocks and dormitories. GETFund was established to support educational development, financing school infrastructure, scholarships, and programmes to improve access to quality education.