Free SHS: Double-track has negatively affected education – Haruna Iddrisu

The Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has announced that the government is working to phase out the double-track system in Senior High Schools (SHSs) through major investments in infrastructure, enhanced digital learning support, and the inclusion of private schools under the Free SHS policy.

Mr. Iddrisu explained on Sunday, August  24, 2025, in a media briefing that the double-track system, introduced to ease congestion in SHSs, has negatively affected learning outcomes by reducing contact hours and study time for students.

“The double-track system has impacted negatively on the quality and outcomes of education under the Free SHS policy. Students have fewer contact hours and less study time, which affects their performance.

“Government’s commitment to ending the system can only be realised at three levels: expanding infrastructure, strengthening digital resources in schools, and allowing private SHSs to absorb qualified students to ease the pressure,” he said at a media briefing.

The committee, chaired by Prof. Peter Grant of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), has been tasked to review the 2024/2025 academic calendar and propose a roadmap for the phase-out.

Its members include:

• Prof. Godwin Awabil, University of Cape Coast (UCC)

• Prof. Samuel A. Atintono, PRINCOF

• Prof. Smile Gavua Dzisi (Mrs.), Deputy Director-General (Management Service), GES

• Dr. Munawaru Issahaque, Deputy Director-General (Quality and Access), GES

• D. W. Agbenyo, WAEC

• Rosemond Wilson (PhD), WAEC

• Mr. Augustus Agyemfra, CODE

• Mr. David Odjidja, CHASS

• Addo Nicholas Nii Kpakpoe, COHBS

Prince Charles Agyemang-Duah, Schools & Instructions Division, GES

CitiNewsRoom