The Minority in Parliament has revealed that the government owes over GH¢6 billion to various companies, individuals, and organizations related to the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy.
They highlighted that the government has yet to reimburse more than GH¢300 million for the procurement of GH¢1.3 million tablets as part of the ‘One Student One Laptop’ initiative.
During a press conference in Accra on July 17, Peter Nortsu Kotoe, the Ranking Member on the Education Committee, stated that while the Free SHS program has significantly expanded access to secondary education, it is facing severe financial challenges. He noted that the outstanding debts are escalating rapidly.
Kotoe expressed concern over the government’s inability to pay suppliers for the tablets, which were intended to reduce reliance on printed textbooks. He emphasized that the supplier, who has taken out a loan of GH¢37 million, has received less than 10% of the payment, putting their business at risk.
Additionally, the Minority pointed out that the government owes the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) GH¢224 million, complicating preparations for the upcoming WASSCE exams in August.
Kotoe urged immediate intervention to prevent further harm to businesses and educational operations in the country.
