Former University Leader Calls for Targeted Free Education Policy
Former University of Ghana Vice-Chancellor Prof Ernest Aryeetey urged the government to redesign its free first-year tertiary education policy. He recommended focusing resources on students who genuinely cannot afford university fees.
Prof Aryeetey delivered these remarks at the University of Ghana Students Financial Aid Office’s 20th-anniversary conference on Tuesday, July 8. The event highlighted two decades of student financial support programs at Ghana’s premier university.
The former academic leader emphasized creating a “No-Fees-Stress-Policy” that identifies truly needy students. His proposal would replace the current blanket approach with targeted assistance for financially disadvantaged applicants.
The government’s existing free first-year tertiary education program covers all students regardless of family income. Critics argue this system wastes resources on students whose families can afford tuition fees.
Prof Aryeetey stressed the importance of equitable access to higher education. He believes proper identification of needy students would maximize the policy’s impact while reducing unnecessary government spending.
The Students Financial Aid Office has supported thousands of University of Ghana students since its establishment in 2004. The office provides scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities for students facing financial hardship.
Ghana’s tertiary education sector continues grappling with funding challenges. Rising enrollment numbers strain university resources while many qualified students cannot afford higher education costs.
Prof Aryeetey’s recommendations align with ongoing debates about sustainable financing models for Ghana’s universities and colleges.
