Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has called for reforms in Ghana’s free senior high school program, advising the government to allow parents who can afford payments of their ward’s education to do so.

Admitting the positive impacts of the policy, the Asantehene observed various challenges, including poor feeding, continue to plague the program, defeating the purpose of providing quality education.

The Asantehene surmises brilliant but needy students could be financially supported through scholarship schemes as existed with the Cocoa scholarships.

He made the remarks during a courtesy visit by the education minister and the Ashanti Regional Minister to the Manhyia Palace.

“We are indeed rolling out the free SHS, but if we brainstorm and realize students will have to go to school and be asked to return home because there’s no food, then it is of no use. Let’s take a critical look at it,” he said.

“If some parents can pay, we should allow them. In the past, if you pass your exam, we check up with the bursar to assist brilliant but needy students. That’s where we had the Cocoa scholarships,” he added.

Ghana’s second-cycle education has in the last eight years been confronted with logistical challenges attracting wide criticisms and review of the free senior high school policy.

The Asantehene admonished the rechanneling of funds from other sectors to the education sector to improve the delivery of quality tuition and welfare to students.

“E-blocks have stalled. Funding is a challenge but some sectors that aren’t critical could have their funds reduced to be re-channeled to the education sector to improve education. Some dormitories in the schools are still not occupied. Some schools do not have Science and IT labs. Even the PTA fees are no longer available. Government should look at these challenges and address them,” he said.

He urged the new education minister to discharge his duties with commitment.

“You were once a minister for the trade and industry, and also the communication. You should continue being humble to deliver your services,” Otumfuo said.