Govt to scrap double-track system in SHSs
The Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has revealed that the government is taking steps to phase out the double-track system in Senior High Schools (SHSs), citing its negative impact on learning outcomes.
Speaking at a media briefing on Sunday, August 24, 2025, Mr Iddrisu said the system, introduced to ease congestion in schools, has reduced contact hours and study time, affecting student performance.
“The double-track system has negatively impacted the quality and outcomes of education under the Free SHS policy. Students have fewer contact hours and less study time, which affects their performance,” the Minister stated.
The government’s plan to eliminate the system will focus on three key interventions: expanding school infrastructure, strengthening digital learning support, and allowing private SHSs to absorb qualified students under the Free SHS programme.
To oversee the transition, an 11-member committee has been inaugurated to design a roadmap for the phase-out and review the 2024/2025 academic calendar.
The committee is chaired by Prof Peter Grant of the University of Cape Coast (UCC).
Other members include Prof Godwin Awabil (UCC), Prof Samuel A. Atintono (PRINCOF), Prof Smile Gavua Dzisi (Deputy Director-General, Management Service, GES), Dr Munawaru Issahaque (Deputy Director-General, Quality and Access, GES), D. W. Agbenyo (WAEC), Rosemond Wilson (PhD) (WAEC), Mr Augustus Agyemfra (CODE), Mr David Odjidja (CHASS), Addo Nicholas Nii Kpakpoe (COHBS), and Prince Charles Agyemang-Duah (Schools & Instructions Division, GES).
Mr Iddrisu emphasised that the government remains committed to improving the Free SHS programme and said phasing out the double-track system is key to restoring quality in secondary education.
