Gov’t moves to ensure inclusive access to free tertiary education for Persons with Disabilities – Nsemkeka
Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has urged members of the Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations to register with the Students Loan Trust Fund (SLTF) to enable them to benefit from the free tertiary education policy promised by President John Mahama.
The Minister revealed that his ministry is currently gathering data on persons with disabilities through the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission to ensure effective implementation of the inclusive policy.
He reaffirmed government’s commitment to providing accessible and equitable education for all, stating that the initiative is in line with President Mahama’s broader resetting agenda.
“The best of John Mahama is ahead of us and not behind us. To measure John Dramani Mahama, let’s measure him today and in the future,” Mr. Iddrisu noted during a meeting with the leadership of the Federation.
The Federation had called on the Minister to follow up on President Mahama’s campaign pledge to introduce inclusive education programs that cater specifically to students with disabilities.
“The president will honour the spirit and letter of his pledge,” Mr. Iddrisu assured.
He also announced the formation of a committee to develop a roadmap for implementing the free tertiary education initiative for persons with disabilities.
The committee will be chaired by Deputy Minister Clement Apaak and include the SLTF CEO, the Federation’s president, and two additional representatives nominated by the Federation, including at least one woman.
President of the Federation, Joseph Atsu Homadzie, expressed appreciation for the government’s ongoing support and appealed for greater investment in accessible infrastructure and assistive technologies to enhance educational outcomes for persons with disabilities.
He emphasised the need to introduce sign language in basic schools, a key pledge made by President Mahama, and called for the swift delivery of tools and devices to support learners with disabilities.