Former President John Dramani Mahama has stated that phasing out the double-track system in Senior High Schools will improve students' academic performance. He believes this change will restore adequate contact time between teachers and learners, leading to better educational outcomes.
Mr. Mahama explained that the double-track arrangement reduced the time teachers spent with students. This reduction negatively affected the quality of teaching and learning across the country. He directly linked this reduced interaction to challenges students face in preparing for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
This discussion comes as Ghana continues to grapple with the demands of its Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy. The policy, while expanding access, has strained existing infrastructure, leading to the introduction of the double-track system in 2018. The system aimed to accommodate the increased student intake by having students attend school in two separate batches.
“We realised that one of the things affecting Free Senior High School was the reduced contact hours between the students and the teachers,” President Mahama said during a tour. He added, “So, we believe that if we end the double-track, it will increase the student-teacher contact hours and we believe that that will improve their performance in the WAEC exams.” This statement highlights a key concern regarding educational quality under the current system.
The government has set a target of ending the double-track system by the close of 2027. This transition depends heavily on the successful expansion of school infrastructure nationwide. Decision-makers will closely monitor the progress of these construction projects and their impact on the educational calendar. The successful phase-out could alleviate pressure on school facilities and potentially enhance learning environments for thousands of students.
The Free SHS policy has been a cornerstone of Ghana's education strategy since its full implementation. However, its rapid expansion necessitated innovative solutions like the double-track system. Critics and proponents alike have debated the system's effectiveness and its long-term impact on educational standards. Ensuring sufficient classroom blocks and dormitory facilities remains a critical challenge for the government.
Improving WASSCE results is a national priority, as these examinations determine students' eligibility for tertiary education and future career paths. Any policy change that promises to enhance these outcomes will be keenly watched by parents, educators, and the broader public. The government's commitment to infrastructure development will be key to achieving the 2027 target and fulfilling the promise of improved academic performance.