Ghana Allocates Record GH₵9.1 Billion to Basic Education in 2025 Budget
In a landmark move the Government of Ghana has announced a record GH₵9.1 billion allocation to basic education in the 2025 national budget. This historic investment, spearheaded by President John Mahama and Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu, marks the largest single investment in foundational education in over five decades.
The bold allocation reflects the government’s renewed focus on restoring quality learning at the foundational level, widely regarded as the bedrock of academic success and national development.
Major Boost to the Education Sector
The announcement is part of a broader set of investments across the education sector. The 2025 budget includes GH₵564 million dedicated to the provision of textbooks aligned with the new curriculum. Notably, GH₵415 million of this amount is being financed by the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), representing the largest textbook investment in the country’s history.
The flagship Free Senior High School (SHS) programme has also received a significant boost, with a GH₵3.5 billion allocation. This is the highest amount since the inception of the policy and will be used to improve infrastructure, support feeding programmes, and phase out the double-track system.
Government’s Commitment Welcomed
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has welcomed the budget, describing it as a turning point for the education sector.
“Foundational learning remains the most crucial stage in every child’s education. It is fulfilling to see genuine government interest again. GES, as an implementing agency, commits to ensuring every Ghanaian child receives the best early years’ education,” said Daniel Fenyi, Head of Public Relations at GES.
Focus on Sanitary Pads and Feeding
In a move aimed at improving school attendance among girls, the budget also makes provision for a Sanitary Pads Distribution Programme. The initiative seeks to provide free sanitary pads to schoolgirls across the country to reduce absenteeism and prevent school dropouts.
Additionally, the feeding programme in Senior High Schools will see increased funding, responding to past challenges related to food quality and supply. The government aims to ensure that students receive nutritious meals to support learning and well-being.
Budget Highlights at a Glance
Basic Education – GH₵9.1 billion (largest allocation in over 50 years)
Textbooks (New Curriculum) – GH₵564 million (including GH₵415 million from GETFund)
Free SHS Programme – GH₵3.5 billion (highest allocation to date)
Sanitary Pads Distribution – Dedicated national funding for schoolgirls
SHS Feeding Programme – Increased support to improve meal quality
A New Era for Education in Ghana
The 2025 Education Budget represents a clear and strategic shift in the government’s commitment to building a strong educational foundation for future generations. With a focus on infrastructure, learning materials, and student welfare, the initiative is poised to create a lasting impact on Ghana’s human capital development.