‘My gov’t will encourage private sector to build educational infrastructure’ — Bawumia

Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has unveiled his plans to expand educational infrastructure in Ghana to the leadership of the Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS).

Speaking to CHASS national executives on Monday, April 22, Dr. Bawumia said his proposal involves leveraging the private sector to build infrastructure such as classrooms, dormitories and provide school buses.

"The private sector will be encouraged to build infrastructure which government will rent over a period of years and own it after a period of time. Government will also lease buses for schools," Dr. Bawumia said, referencing his policy speech in February.

The Vice President believes this new model of financing can help address the infrastructure deficit without huge initial government outlays.

"This new mode of financing will avoid huge initial government outlays (through the GETFUND) and delays in the completion of infrastructure projects in our senior high schools," he explained.

CHASS leadership, according to the NPP flagbearer, expressed excitement about the prospects of the proposal to improve facilities and the quality of education.

Dr. Bawumia said, "Like me, CHASS is excited about the prospects of this policy proposal as it will reduce the educational infrastructure deficit, improve maintenance, enhance the quality of education and at the same time improve the management of Government expenditure."

The meeting forms part of the Vice President's consultations on his vision to reform and expand access to secondary education ahead of the 2024 elections.