Haruna Iddrisu is the Minister of Education
Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has stated that the government is working to phase out the double-track system in Senior High Schools (SHSs) through major investments in infrastructure, digital learning support, and the inclusion of private schools under the Free SHS policy.
According to him, the double-track system, which was introduced to ease congestion in SHSs, has negatively affected learning outcomes by reducing contact hours and study time.
“The double-track system has negatively impacted the quality and outcomes of education under the Free SHS policy. Students have fewer contact hours and less study time, which affects their performance. Government’s commitment to ending the system can only be realised at three levels: expanding infrastructure, strengthening digital resources in schools, and allowing private SHSs to absorb qualified students to ease the pressure,” he stated.
To oversee the transition, the government has set up an 11-member committee chaired by Prof Peter Grant of the University of Cape Coast (UCC).
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The committee has been tasked to review the 2024/2025 academic calendar and propose a roadmap to guide the process of phasing-out out the double-track system.
Members of the committee include Prof Godwin Awabil of UCC, Prof Samuel A Atintono of PRINCOF, Prof Smile Gavua Dzisi of GES, Dr Munawaru Issahaque of GES, D W Agbenyo of WAEC, Dr Rosemond Wilson of WAEC, Augustus Agyemfra of CODE, David Odjidja of CHASS, Addo Nicholas Nii Kpakpoe of COHBS, and Prince Charles Agyemang-Duah of GES.
The minister assured that government will continue to invest in facilities and strengthen digital learning resources to ensure a smooth transition back to the single-track system.
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