Reports Anthony Obeng Afranie.
President John Dramani Mahama has taken a significant stride towards fulfilling a key promise made during his 2024 presidential campaign. The 2025 national budget, unveiled some days ago, includes a substantial allocation of GH¢499.8 million specifically earmarked for the implementation of the “No-Academic-Fee” policy for first-year students in all public tertiary institutions across Ghana. This bold initiative aims to remove a significant financial barrier to higher education, potentially transforming the educational landscape and fostering greater inclusivity.
During his campaign as the presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mahama emphasised the importance of accessible education for all Ghanaians, regardless of their socio-economic background.
The “No-Academic-Fee” policy was presented as a mainstay of his vision, promising to provide a much-needed boost to students and their families struggling to afford the rising costs of tertiary education. This allocation demonstrates a firm commitment to translating campaign promises into concrete action.
The allocated GH¢499.8 million will cover the academic fees for all first-year students entering public universities, Nursing Training Colleges, and Colleges of Education in the 2025 academic year. This will significantly alleviate the financial burden on students and their families, enabling more young Ghanaians to pursue higher education without being hindered by crippling debt or insurmountable upfront costs.
Beyond immediate affordability, the “No-Academic-Fee” policy aims to address the long-term impact of financial constraints on students’ academic performance. By removing the pressure of finding funds for tuition, students can dedicate their time and energy to their studies, potentially leading to improved academic outcomes and ultimately, a more skilled and competitive workforce.
Furthermore, the policy is expected to boost enrollment rates in tertiary institutions, opening doors to higher education for students from disadvantaged backgrounds who may have previously been deterred by financial limitations. This will contribute to a more equitable distribution of educational opportunities and foster a more inclusive society where talent and potential are not stifled by economic circumstances.
Adding another layer of support, the government has also announced that all first-year students who have already paid their academic fees for the first semester of the 2025 academic year will be eligible for a full refund. This measure ensures that no student is disadvantaged by the retroactive implementation of the policy and provides immediate relief to those who have already made financial sacrifices to secure their place in higher education.
The implementation of this ambitious policy will undoubtedly require careful planning and meticulous execution. Clear guidelines and efficient disbursement mechanisms will be crucial to ensure that the funds are effectively utilised and that the benefits reach all intended beneficiaries. Collaboration between the Ministry of Education, tertiary institutions, and student representatives will be essential to address potential challenges and ensure the smooth implementation of the “No-Academic-Fee” policy.
While the allocation of GH¢499.8 million is a significant step, the long-term sustainability of the policy will require ongoing evaluation and strategic resource allocation. Ensuring the quality of education and infrastructure development within tertiary institutions remains paramount, and further investment may be necessary to accommodate the anticipated increase in student enrollment.
President Mahama’s commitment to the “No-Academic-Fee” policy signifies a profound investment in the future of Ghana’s youth. By removing financial barriers to higher education, the government aims to empower a new generation of graduates, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to drive innovation, contribute to economic growth, and build a brighter future for the nation. The success of this policy will be a defining achievement of President Mahama’s administration and a testament to the transformative power of accessible education. This is the greatest love of all.
