Government to Roll Out Free Tertiary Education for Persons with Disabilities
In a major step towards inclusivity, the government of Ghana, through the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, and the Ministry of Education, is set to launch a Free Tertiary Education policy for persons with disabilities.
This policy, a key promise made by President John Mahama, will relieve persons with disabilities who qualify for tertiary education from the burden of tuition fees. The initiative is expected to be rolled out in the coming weeks.
Speaking to GBC Obonu News during a special thanksgiving service at Lashibi in Accra, the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, confirmed that consultations have been completed and the policy is now ready for implementation. This move aligns with the government’s commitment to its 120-day social contract with the people of Ghana.
Dr. Lartey emphasized the importance of her Ministry, noting its responsibility for the overall well-being of Ghanaians. She also highlighted President Mahama’s clear vision for improving the lives of citizens, including the decentralization of the school feeding program to ensure access to quality meals for all.
The Minister stated, “His Excellency John Dramani Mahama is very clear on what he wants to do for Ghanaians, particularly in the areas of children’s protection and social welfare, and quality service delivery for the people.”
In addition to the free tertiary education for persons with disabilities, Dr. Lartey revealed that her Ministry is advancing plans for the operationalization of the Women’s Development Bank, another key promise under the 120-day contract. This bank will provide financial support to women entrepreneurs and will be managed and staffed entirely by women, fostering empowerment in the business sector.
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“Within the 120 days, we’ll also establish the Women’s Development Bank. We have made significant progress, and discussions with stakeholders are underway. Very soon, you will hear more about this development,” Dr. Lartey added.
She also mentioned the introduction of free sanitary pads for schoolgirls, a policy she is collaborating on with the Ministry of Education. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to enhance the welfare of women and children in Ghana.
The Minister affirmed her Ministry’s cross-sectorial approach, working with other sectors such as Trade and Agriculture to achieve the government’s goals for the people of Ghana. “There is much work to be done, and we are determined to collaborate with other ministries to deliver the promises made to Ghanaians.”
At the thanksgiving service, Reverend Dr. Stephen Wengam, General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God Church, commended church members for their active participation in leadership roles, particularly within governance, and encouraged them to continue serving their communities.
With these new initiatives on the horizon, the government is making strides toward creating a more inclusive and equitable society, ensuring that every Ghanaian, regardless of disability or gender, has the opportunity to thrive.
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