However, a recent report by Africa Education Watch, along with public concerns, suggest that this free education comes with hidden fees.

It became the gamechanger for education in the country giving opportunity for more children who hitherto could not have had the chance to go to school.

The free SHS policy, a revolutionary step towards equitable education, has seen a remarkable 50% increase in the annual enrolment rate since its implementation in 2017.

President Akufo-Addo, the champion of the free SHS initiative, during its launch in September 2017 highlighted its aim.

“From this day on, we lift the financial burden off parents, and the heart-rending anxiety that accompanies the beginning of every school term. We have a sacred duty to our children and the generations beyond in ensuring that irrespective of their circumstance, their right to education is preserved.”

However, over the past 6 years of its implementation, there have been a myriad of challenges spanning from financial constraints to infrastructure deficit.

“My problem is with the day and boarding accommodation status. How can my ward be going to Accra Senior High School as a day student when he’s staying at Kade. The school nearby is a technical school but my ward is a science student and the other school is also a girls school and he’s a boy so I can’t take him to a school closer.” A parent bitterly explained.