Education is a fundamental right and an essential driver of personal and societal development.
However, the increasing cost of education in many parts of the world has created barriers that limit access to quality learning, especially for disadvantaged groups.
Thus, reducing the cost of education is not just a matter of making schooling more affordable; it is also about promoting equity, fostering economic growth, and improving social outcomes.
Accordingly, John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the NDC, has reaffirmed the party’s commitment to easing the financial burdens faced by parents and students in public tertiary institutions.
He emphasized that the next NDC government will prioritize making education more affordable and accessible.
“Our pillars of support under the policy include Exempt all first-year students in public tertiary institutions from paying academic fees during their first year after admission”.
“As outlined by Joseph Ogyemoko Baleto in the docuseries, the No-Academic-Fees Policy will enable, especially our unfortunate brothers and sisters, to enjoy a worry-free start to their academic journey”.
John Dramani Mahama
Mahama further stated that the next NDC government will take decisive steps to revamp the Student Loan Trust Fund, with the goal of increasing loan amounts for students based on their individual financial needs.
This initiative aims to ensure that students receive adequate support for their education, helping them manage the rising costs associated with higher learning.
Additionally, Mahama emphasized that under the new administration, the fund will be strengthened to guarantee prompt and timely disbursements, ensuring that students can access their loans when they need them the most, without unnecessary delays.
Moreover, the NDC flagbearer pledged to reintroduce the Student Loan Trust Fund Plus program, which will offer further financial assistance to continuing tertiary students beyond their first year.
According to Mahama, this program will be designed to enable students to cover their academic expenses, including tuition, hostel accommodations, and other necessary fees, especially after the first year when the initial no-fee payment policy applies.
He stated that through these measures, the NDC aims to reduce the financial pressures on students and parents, ensuring a smoother academic journey for all students in public tertiary institutions.
Mahama Pledges Free Tertiary Education for Students with Disabilities
Furthermore, John Dramani Mahama emphasized that the NDC will make significant investments in empowering students with disabilities by providing them with free access to tertiary education.
He indicated that this initiative reflects the party’s unwavering commitment to creating an inclusive educational environment where every student has the opportunity to pursue higher learning without financial barriers.
Mahama underscored that this policy is an affirmation of the NDC’s belief in equal opportunity, ensuring that no student is left behind due to their circumstances.
“[The NDC will] Establish Tertiary Endowment Funds (TEF) in partnership with alumni, philanthropists, and corporate Ghana to help provide lasting support for students across public tertiary universities”.
“Provide teacher and nurse trainees with allowances, student loans, and other funding options”.
John Dramani Mahama
The NDC flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, further emphasized that under his leadership and the NDC administration, quality education will be accessible to all Ghanaians, regardless of their financial or social standing.
He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to making education an equal opportunity for every citizen, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of academic excellence.
“That is why I invite you to join us in building a brighter, more inclusive future for all students!” – John Dramani Mahama
John Mahama urged the electorate to support the NDC by selecting number 8 on the ballot and voting for him in the upcoming elections to help make education more accessible for all Ghanaians.
He highlighted that, together, they can reduce the financial burdens on students and parents, ensuring that every Ghanaian student has the opportunity to pursue their education without undue stress.
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