President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has hailed his government’s flagship Free Senior High School (SHS) policy as a transformative initiative that has benefitted 5.7 million young people in the country, many of whom would have otherwise been denied the opportunity to receive a quality education.

Speaking at the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, President Akufo-Addo outlined the profound impact the policy has had on the nation’s youth and called for a global commitment to ensuring access to education for all children.

"Our flagship Free Senior High School policy has benefitted 5.7 million young people, many of whom would have been denied the opportunity to learn, to dream, and to succeed," President Akufo-Addo told the global assembly. "This initiative has transformed the lives of millions, positioning the next generation of Ghanaians to take their place as leaders in the global economy."

Launched in 2017, the Free SHS policy has been a cornerstone of President Akufo-Addo’s administration, aimed at removing financial barriers to secondary education in Ghana.

By covering the full cost of secondary education for all eligible students, the policy has significantly expanded access to schooling for children from all walks of life, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

"This is just the beginning," the President said, expressing his belief that access to education should not be limited by geography or circumstance. "We need a global commitment to ensure that every child, no matter where they are born, has access to quality education. A world where children are left unprepared for the challenges ahead is not a just world."

The President’s comments come at a time when many countries, particularly in the developing world, are grappling with educational inequities exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing economic challenges.

In his address, President Akufo-Addo emphasised that education is a key driver of development, economic growth, and social mobility, and that investing in human capital is critical to addressing global poverty and inequality.

In Ghana, the Free SHS policy has been widely praised for its impact on educational outcomes and its role in leveling the playing field for students from all socioeconomic backgrounds.

According to government data, enrollment in secondary schools has increased significantly since the policy’s implementation, with many students who would have dropped out due to financial constraints now able to complete their education.

President Akufo-Addo’s remarks at the UN also highlighted other key initiatives his government has undertaken to ensure that "no one is left behind" in Ghana’s development.

In addition to the Free SHS policy, he pointed to the Agenda 111 project, which aims to construct 111 hospitals across the country, particularly in under-served and remote areas. "This is part of our broader goal of ensuring that no one in Ghana is left without the basic right to health," he said.

The President also noted the success of the Programme for Planting for Food and Jobs, which has boosted food security and created jobs for millions of Ghanaians. He described the initiative as "a clear demonstration that, with the right policies and investments, we can transform our agricultural sector and ensure that no one goes hungry."

Looking beyond Ghana’s borders, President Akufo-Addo urged world leaders to prioritize investments in education, healthcare, and economic development, arguing that these are the foundations of a just and equitable society. "True peace comes from investing in education, healthcare, and economic development," he said.

As he nears the end of his presidency, President Akufo-Addo’s message to the international community was clear: education is not just a right, but a critical tool for development and empowerment. "The decisions we make today will shape the future of our world," he said, urging global leaders to act with courage and compassion to ensure that "no one is left behind."

The Free SHS policy, which has transformed the lives of millions in Ghana, stands as a testament to the power of bold, visionary leadership in tackling inequality and building a brighter future for all.