Parliament has given the green light for a budget of GH₵31 billion to support the Ministry of Education’s plans for the year 2025. This budget will help the Ministry carry out various projects to improve education in Ghana.
One of the major highlights of the budget is the plan to waive academic fees for all first-year students in public tertiary institutions. This move aims to make higher education more accessible to everyone, especially those who face financial challenges.
The government has also introduced a plan to provide free tertiary education for persons with disabilities. This is intended to reduce the financial strain on families and ensure that students with disabilities have equal opportunities to pursue higher education.
To improve the lives of basic school teachers, the Ministry has launched the “Teacher Dabrɛ Initiative”. Under this program, 100 accommodation facilities will be built for basic school teachers across the country. This will make it easier for teachers to live and work in their communities.
Budget for Local Government and Other Sectors
Parliament has also approved GH₵4 billion for the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs for the 2025 fiscal year. This funding will be used to:
- Pay allowances to assembly members and traditional leaders.
- Support various programs and projects under the Ministry.
- Establish a National Prayer Day as part of the ministry’s religious and cultural initiatives.
Assembly Members’ Allowance
Speaking in Parliament on Thursday, March 27, the Minister for Roads and Highways and MP for Adaklu, Governs Agbodza, addressed concerns about how assembly members will be paid. He explained that their remuneration will be included in the Common Fund formula, which is currently under consideration.
This budget approval shows the government’s commitment to improving both the education sector and local governance. Ghanaians are hopeful that these plans will lead to better access to education and improved welfare for teachers and local leaders.
