Haruna Iddrisu, the Minister for Education, has revealed that the government will need GH₵345 million to implement the first batch of free tuition for newly admitted students in state-owned universities.

Speaking during his appearance before the Parliamentary vetting committee on Monday, January 20, Iddrisu explained, “The number of students entering tertiary institutions will require approximately GH₵345 million to cover their tuition fees. This is the amount the state will need to contribute.”

The Tamale South MP further clarified, “We intend to allocate that amount to the affected universities, at least to refund students who have already paid their fees.”

He also mentioned, “The beauty of this system is that it is open; even parents who are still willing to pay can do so under this principle.”

Iddrisu estimated that 125,000 students would benefit from the initiative for the academic year, noting, "We will provide GH₵375 to support this." (At this point, it is unclear whether the Minister-designate meant GH₵345 million or GH₵375 per student.)

He also confirmed that new entrants in all public universities who have already paid their admission fees will receive refunds once the government disburses the funds to the universities.

“Every student who has paid will receive a refund, and the President intends to expand this initiative in the coming years,” he added.

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has promised several social interventions aimed at alleviating the financial burden on ordinary Ghanaians, with free tuition for fresh entrants into public universities is one of the key promises.

Haruna has since been confirmed as the substantive minister and inducted into office by President Mahama.