Over 60% of applicants are unable to pursue tertiary education in Ghana — Prof. G. K. T. Oduro

Prof. George K. T. Oduro, an Educational Leadership Scholar at the University of Cape Coast, has revealed that over 60% of applicants for tertiary education are unable to attend university due to the inability to afford admission fees.

He commended the National Democratic Congress' (NDC) Youth Manifesto proposal to cover admission fees for Level 100 needy students, noting that it could significantly increase access to tertiary education and contribute to national development.

During a phone interview with GBC Radio Central's Morning Show on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, Prof. Oduro shared his insights on the NDC Youth Manifesto's plan to absorb admission fees for first-year public tertiary students. He pointed out that the Free Senior High School (FSHS) policy has led to an increased number of applicants seeking higher education, with more than 60% facing financial barriers.

"Research indicates that financial constraints are a major reason students cannot pay admission fees. Recognizing this, the NDC deemed it wise to implement a policy to cover the first-year admission fees, easing the financial burden on students," Prof. Oduro explained.

He emphasized that the NDC's policy is grounded in equity, aiming to support the less privileged in accessing higher education.

Regarding the financial sustainability of the policy, Prof. Oduro argued that an analysis of GETFUND operations shows that substantial funds are not directly benefiting education, citing examples of GETFUND money being used for non-educational expenses like servicing Presidential Staffers. He suggested that by curtailing such expenditures and prioritizing this policy, sufficient funds could be generated for its implementation.

Addressing concerns about how the less privileged would manage fees after the government covers initial admission fees, Prof. Oduro explained that the initial admission fees are a major concern for most parents. Once that burden is lifted, he believes parents will find creative ways to cover subsequent costs.

Prof. Oduro observed that the FSHS policy has led some parents to become less proactive in supporting their children's education financially. "Parents have a role to play in their children's education. I believe that once the government covers the initial admission fees, parents should be able to plan for the following years. It’s a collaborative effort," he stressed.

He also noted that this proposal is part of the Youth Manifesto and that the full details will be outlined in the NDC's upcoming main manifesto. Prof. Oduro encouraged all parents to do their best to support their children's educational pursuits.