'It's better to sit on the floor without desks than being illiterate' — Vincent Assafuah reacts to calls for free SHS review

In a staunch defense of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, the Member of Parliament for the Old Tafo constituency, asserted that it is preferable for students to study under trees than to be uneducated.

His comments were made in reaction to recent calls for a review of the Free SHS policy.

Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, the Minister of Education has frequently opposed the review calls, emphasizing that the policy is effective and does not require reassessment.

In an interview with Citi TV on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, Mr. Assafuah acknowledged the existing challenges in the education sector but firmly expressed his belief that reviewing the policy is not the solution.

He indicated that, despite challenges, students are receiving quality education, which he considers the paramount aspect.

The MP stressed the essence of providing education for the less privileged and urged all Ghanaians to unite in addressing challenges rather than advocating for a review.

He passionately stated, “For me, it is better for a young person to sit on the floor without a desk to learn rather than not being educated.

“It is better for a young person to go to school without a slipper and be educated than not being educated at all.”