2025 education budget looks promising, not like a limping economy—Kofi Asare

Executive Director of Africa Education Watch (EduWatch) Kofi Asare

Executive Director of Africa Education Watch (EduWatch) Kofi Asare has expressed optimism about the 2025 education budget, stating that it appears promising and does not reflect an economy in distress.

In a Facebook post, Asare noted that while the speech delivered by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson suggests strong government commitment, a full analysis of the budget statement will determine its real impact.

Asare pointed out that the Free Senior High School (SHS) program has received its highest-ever allocation of GH¢3.5 billion, representing a 30% increase over the 2024 budget.

Additionally, GH¢564 million has been allocated for textbooks, a staggering 370% rise compared to the previous year. Despite this, he noted that Ghana’s basic school textbook deficit still stands at approximately 35%, with some districts completely lacking essential textbooks in core subjects.

Beyond these allocations, Asare highlighted the introduction of the 'No-Academic-Fee' policy for first-year students in public tertiary institutions. Backed by a GH¢499.8 million budget under the ‘No-Fees-Stress’ initiative, the policy is designed to reduce financial burdens and enhance access to higher education.

Finance Minister Dr. Forson, during his budget presentation in Parliament, reinforced the government’s commitment to making education a pillar of national development.

He stated that eliminating academic fees for first-year students would ease financial pressure on thousands of households struggling with rising tertiary education costs.

While the budget demonstrates a significant financial commitment to education, Asare’s remarks suggest that its successful implementation will be key. As stakeholders await the full details, attention will be on whether these financial commitments translate into meaningful improvements across Ghana’s education sector.