Bono Regional Minister Hails Free SHS Policy, Advocates for Continuity to Transform Ghana
The Bono Regional Minister, Hon. Justina Owusu Banahene, has lauded the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, describing it as a transformative initiative that will soon position Ghana among the nations with the lowest illiteracy rates globally.
Speaking during a visit to Our Lady of Providence Girls’ SHS in Drobo, Jaman South District of the Bono Region, Madam Owusu Banahene highlighted the policy’s profound impact on education and national development.
According to the Minister, the Free SHS program, a flagship initiative of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has significantly increased school enrolment across all levels of education.
“In a few years, every Ghanaian will be able to read, write, and understand without external assistance,” she asserted, envisioning a future where literacy becomes a universal standard in the country.
A Nation Free of Illiteracy
Madam Owusu Banahene urged students to imagine a Ghana devoid of illiteracy, emphasizing the broader societal benefits.
“A literate society will eliminate unnecessary conflicts, eradicate poverty, and pave the way for innovation and industrialization,” she said.
She further outlined the ripple effects of education, including improved living standards, reduced mortality rates, and healthier lifestyles. “Ghana will be the talk of the world,” she added, exuding optimism about the nation’s potential.
Advocating for Continuity
The Minister emphasized the importance of maintaining the momentum set by the current government.
She appealed to Ghanaians to support Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the successor to President Akufo-Addo, arguing that his leadership would ensure the uninterrupted continuation of impactful policies like Free SHS.
“Dr. Bawumia has the vision and capacity to revolutionize the country, building on the solid foundation laid by the NPP government,” she stated.
STEM Education as a Game-Changer
Madam Owusu Banahene also highlighted the establishment of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education as a strategic move to shift Ghana from dependency to self-reliance.
She noted that investing in STEM would position the nation as a global hub for expertise and innovation, potentially making Ghana indispensable to other countries.
The Bono Regional Minister underscore the transformative potential of education and the critical role of policy continuity in achieving long-term national goals.
She said just as Ghana progresses on its journey toward universal literacy and sustainable development, the call for political and civic commitment remains pivotal.
