Minister Outlines Plan to Boost Learning
On August 24, 2025, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu announced plans to phase out the double-track system in Senior High Schools, citing its negative impact on Free SHS learning outcomes. The system, introduced in 2018 to manage congestion, reduces student contact hours, affecting 1.4 million students’ performance.
Iddrisu outlined three strategies: expanding SHS infrastructure, enhancing digital learning resources, and integrating qualified private SHSs into the Free SHS program to ease pressure. These steps aim to restore productive learning hours and ensure fairness across Ghana’s 700 SHSs, per GES data.
An 11-member committee, chaired by Prof. Godwin Awabil of UCC, will review the 2024/2025 academic calendar and propose a single-track roadmap. Members include Prof. Samuel A. Atintono, Prof. Smile Gavua Dzisi, and representatives from WAEC, GES, and CHASS, ensuring a comprehensive approach.
The double-track system, splitting students into Green and Gold tracks, has led to 30% fewer contact hours, per a 2024 GES report. The phase-out aligns with a GH¢2 billion investment in classroom blocks and digital tools to support 2.3 million SHS students.
Iddrisu expressed confidence in the reforms, emphasizing improved quality and access. The committee’s recommendations, due by December 2025, will guide the transition, addressing congestion and enhancing education under the Free SHS policy.