A Historic Step for Inclusive Education in Ghana
Disability a Social Development Advocacy (DaSDA) Africa has welcomed the government’s Free Tertiary Education Policy for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), but has also called for rigorous scrutiny to prevent any exploitation of the system. The initiative, launched on October 24, 2025, marks a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to promote inclusivity and equitable access to education.
In a press statement signed by Executive Director Isaac Kwaku Wadi, DaSDA Africa emphasized that while the policy is a positive step, its success will depend on effective implementation. The group highlighted the need for integrity, robust job-linkage, and a clear pathway from education to employment.
The announcement was made by President John Mahama, who described the initiative as a core national duty and a moral responsibility rather than an act of charity. He emphasized that this policy reflects Ghana’s commitment to inclusive growth and development.
“Each student supported under this policy becomes an asset to our nation. A potential engineer, a teacher, an entrepreneur, a farmer or an innovator. Their success will strengthen Ghana’s economy and enrich our collective humanity,” President Mahama stated.
While acknowledging the potential of the policy, Mr. Wadi urged the government to look beyond the initial rollout. He stressed that the policy’s success hinges on effective implementation and a focus on sustainable outcomes.
“True national progress is measured by how we serve our most vulnerable. This policy has the power to transform lives, but only if it is built on a foundation of sustainability, integrity, and tangible outcomes,” Mr. Wadi said.
Key Recommendations for Effective Implementation
DaSDA Africa outlined several key recommendations to ensure the policy lives up to its promise:
- Guaranteed Annual Funding: The policy must be supported by consistent and sufficient funding to ensure long-term viability.
- Collaborative Oversight Body: A dedicated oversight body involving the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) and disability-led organizations should be established to ensure accountability and transparency.
- Verification Process: A rigorous yet accessible verification process is needed to prevent non-eligible persons from accessing the benefits of the policy, thereby protecting the integrity of the system.
- Extension to Higher Degrees: The group is advocating for the policy to be extended to cover Master’s and PhD programs, which would help build future generations of disabled scholars and leaders.
Bridging Education and Employment
The advocacy group emphasized that free education is only the first step. It called for an employment program and tailored entrepreneurship support to ensure graduates can translate their degrees into economic contributions.
“Access to education is empty if it doesn’t lead to opportunity. We must build a bridge that connects these future graduates with inclusive employers or the resources to become entrepreneurs themselves. This is how we unlock the full potential of this landmark policy,” Mr. Wadi added.
The Role of DaSDA Africa
DaSDA Africa is a disability advocacy organization dedicated to promoting inclusion, equity, and empowerment of persons with disabilities (PWDs). The group continues to work closely with stakeholders to ensure that the Free Tertiary Education Policy for PWDs achieves its intended goals and makes a meaningful impact on the lives of disabled individuals in Ghana.