The government has announced a GH¢1 billion allocation to phase out the double-track system in senior high schools across Ghana. The Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu, revealed this plan during the inauguration of a new staff accommodation facility at Accra Girls’ Senior High School. The investment, expected to feature in next year’s budget, will be sourced from the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) and directed toward addressing long-standing infrastructure deficits in the education sector.
The double-track system was first introduced in the 2018/2019 academic year as a temporary solution to manage overcrowding in schools after the Free SHS policy significantly increased enrolment. Students were divided into two groups who alternated in cycles, making it possible to maximize existing facilities. While it provided a short-term fix, the system was never intended as a permanent feature.
Haruna Iddrisu explained that the proposed investment would be used to complete stalled classroom blocks, assembly halls, and other key projects that will allow all senior high school students to learn under one unified system. He emphasized that the government was fully committed to ending the double-track arrangement and improving the quality of senior high school education. Quoting President John Mahama, he noted that the decision reflected the administration’s long-term vision to enhance educational outcomes and ensure better conditions for both students and teachers.
The minister also reassured the public that the Free SHS policy will not be scrapped. He explained that while some had speculated about its future, the government remains committed to sustaining and strengthening the programme. According to him, Free SHS is already making significant contributions to literacy and numeracy nationwide, and with further investment, its impact will be even greater. He disclosed that so far, about 100 double-track schools have been phased out, with the remaining ones expected to follow after next year’s budget allocations.
In addition to tackling infrastructure challenges, the government intends to explore digital solutions that will expand access to quality education. This will include initiatives to integrate technology into classrooms, thereby equipping students with modern learning tools and skills for the future. For the government, the GH¢1 billion investment represents a decisive step toward ending the double-track system and creating a stronger foundation for senior high school education in Ghana.