We Will Need $1.5b To Run The Education Sector Effectively – Haruna Iddrisu

The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has announced that the government requires an estimated $1.5 billion to effectively address the pressing challenges facing the education sector over the next few years. This significant investment aims to bridge the infrastructure gap and tackle other critical issues hindering the sector’s progress.

During a tour of four agencies under the Ministry of Education in Accra on February 12, Mr. Iddrisu emphasized the urgent need for increased funding. He highlighted the strain placed on public universities due to the implementation of the Free Senior High School (SHS) program, which has led to overcrowding and resource constraints.

“My strategy is to decouple the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) and boost its investment in education as a percentage of GDP. We must prioritize increasing allocations to the education portfolio. I am confident that, within the next few years, we will need to invest a minimum of $1.5 billion into the sector to ensure its sustainability and growth,” the Minister stated.

The previous administration made strides in advancing education by constructing several Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) schools across the country. Mr. Iddrisu expressed his commitment to building on this foundation by strengthening existing STEM institutions and expanding infrastructure to support their growth.

“The Accra STEM Academy is not just a physical structure; it represents a promise to our youth. It ensures that students who enroll will graduate with a Senior High School education, equipped with the skills needed for the future,” he explained.

The Minister further outlined plans to scale up the STEM initiative, starting with regional capitals. “Our goal is to expand STEM schools to regions such as Upper East, Upper West, Oti, and Western North, with other regions to follow. This will ensure equitable access to quality education and foster innovation nationwide,” he added.

The proposed $1.5 billion investment underscores the government’s dedication to transforming Ghana’s education system. By addressing infrastructure deficits, enhancing STEM education, and increasing funding, the Ministry aims to create a more robust and inclusive educational framework that prepares students for the demands of the 21st century.

As the government works to secure the necessary resources, stakeholders remain hopeful that these measures will pave the way for a brighter future for Ghana’s youth and the nation as a whole.

Source: GhanaFeed.Com