In a surprising turn of events, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has vowed to abolish the double-track system and complete all 200 Community Day Schools initiated under the John Mahama administration.
This pledge, made by NDC Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, marks the party’s stance against the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy.
Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, speaking at a campaign rally, explained that the schools initiated under the John Mahama administration, when completed, will create more space for the large number of students eligible for placement under the Free Senior High School policy.
Addressing constituents in Sekyeredumasi as part of a tour of the Ashanti Region, he stated, “Our strategy is to complete all 200 community day schools. This will ensure all students have access to education. There will be enough dormitories, classrooms, and all amenities to ensure they all go to school in the same period.”
He added, “The prevailing double-track system, where students go to school for three months and stay home for six months, will be canceled under the next NDC administration.”
NDC’s Opposition To Free SHS
The NDC had opposed the Free SHS policy, citing concerns over its sustainability and effectiveness.
However, the party has now reaffirmed its commitment to the policy, emphasizing the need for improvements.
Government Intervention in Double-Track System
The double-track system was introduced to address the surge in student enrollment following the implementation of the Free SHS policy.
The government has since taken steps to address the system’s ineffectiveness, including the completion of Community Day Schools and building new schools.
Completion of Community Day Schools
Meanwhile, the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) has clarified that 22 E-Blocks were completed by the end of 2016, with an additional 30 completed by 2020.
The remaining 38 E-Blocks are at various stages of completion.
Youth Development and Apprenticeship
The NDC has also promised to support apprenticeship programs through the Youth in Apprenticeship Program, providing training and job opportunities for youth who were unable to access secondary education.