The Ghanaian government has spent over GHS 900 million on its “No Fees Stress” policy. This initiative covers the academic user fees for first-year students attending public tertiary institutions. Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu confirmed this significant expenditure.
President John Dramani Mahama launched the “No Fees Stress” policy on July 4, 2025. The policy aims to alleviate financial burdens on new university entrants. Mr. Iddrisu made the disclosure during the commissioning of the Kenyasi Number Two campus of the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) in the Ahafo Region.
This investment aligns with Ghana's broader commitment to expanding access to higher education. The government has consistently prioritized education sector funding, recognizing its role in national development. Previous budgets have also allocated substantial resources to educational infrastructure and student support programs across the country.
Mr. Iddrisu stated that the government has earmarked GHS 50 million for infrastructure development at the Kenyasi Number Two UMaT campus. This funding will facilitate the full operationalization of the new facility. He also assured that modalities are being finalized to establish public universities in other regions currently without them.
The Kenyasi Number Two campus of UMaT was constructed by the Newmont Ahafo Development Foundation (NADeF) at a cost exceeding GHS 13.9 million. This four-storey lecture block features eight lecture halls, an ICT laboratory, and an elevator. Newmont Ghana Gold Limited's General Manager, Alex Kofi Annin, highlighted the campus as a testament to community vision and institutional collaboration.
Professor Yaw Ofosu-Kusi, Chairperson of the NADeF Board of Trustees, explained the foundation's funding model. NADeF receives $1 from every ounce of gold sold and one percent of annual pre-tax net profit from Newmont Ahafo Mine’s operations. This sustainable funding mechanism supports various community development projects, including educational infrastructure.
The government's continued investment in education, particularly tertiary education, is crucial for Ghana’s human capital development. Expanding university access and modernizing facilities can boost skilled labor availability. This will positively impact economic productivity and innovation in the long term.
The establishment of new universities in underserved regions will also promote regional equity. It will provide more opportunities for local youth, reducing the need for them to migrate to larger cities for higher education. This decentralization of educational resources supports balanced national development.
Looking ahead, stakeholders will monitor the timely completion of the planned new universities. The effectiveness of the “No Fees Stress” policy in retaining students and improving academic outcomes will also be a key area of focus. These initiatives are expected to strengthen Ghana’s educational landscape significantly.
The government's commitment to these projects underscores its strategy to foster a knowledgeable workforce. This strategy is vital for Ghana's economic growth and competitiveness in the global market. The impact of these investments will be observed in future employment rates and economic indicators.