Free SHS: Long Vacations May Put Students At Risk Of Teenage Pregnancy

Former President of Ghana and National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, has expressed apprehension regarding the implementation of the Free Senior High School (SHS) program, asserting that it places students at risk of succumbing to social vices.

During an address to Chiefs and Elders in the Western North Region, Mahama emphasized that the current academic calendar, allowing students to stay at home for over three months, not only imposes a burden on parents but also poses potential risks to the well-being of the students.

“Some students went to school recently, and after two weeks they will be back. Some, too, have been home and will go back in March. If you are a parent and you don’t have teachers for your children, that will be very costly for their academics,” Mahama remarked.

The former president further expressed concerns about the potential consequences of extended breaks, stating, “If you don’t take care, your male children will join these ‘yahoo yahoo’ boys, while the ladies, if not taken care of very well, will get pregnant.”

Mahama’s comments highlight his worry about the negative impact of prolonged breaks on the academic progress and overall well-being of students enrolled in the Free SHS program. He urged parents to be vigilant in providing proper guidance and support to their children during these extended periods away from school.

The concerns raised by Mahama underscore ongoing debates about the efficacy of the Free SHS program and the need for comprehensive measures to ensure the well-rounded development of students and safeguard them from potential social challenges.

The government has yet to respond to Mahama’s remarks, and it remains to be seen how these concerns will influence future discussions and policy considerations surrounding the Free SHS program in Ghana.

Source: GhanaFeed.Com