Haruna Iddrisu Unveils ‘No Fees Stress’ Policy to Refund Admission Fees for First-Year University Students
Haruna Iddrisu, the Education Minister-Designate, has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to ease the financial burden on first-year university students in Ghana. During his vetting by Parliament’s Appointments Committee, Iddrisu announced that students who have already paid their admission fees will receive refunds under the newly introduced ‘No Fees Stress’ policy.
This initiative, championed by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government, aims to make tertiary education more affordable and accessible. A budget of GH¢345 million has been allocated to cover admission fees for students pursuing general subject areas in public tertiary institutions. However, professional programs like medicine are excluded from this provision.
“On the authority of President Mahama, and with the approval of the Minister of Finance-designate, Hon. Ato Forson, this provision will be included in the government’s Reset Budget. The funds will ensure that students undertaking courses in general subject areas have their admission fees refunded,” Haruna Iddrisu stated.
He further clarified the process: “We intend to provide that money to the affected universities, ensuring refunds to all those who have already paid their fees.” This approach ensures that the funds are distributed directly to universities, allowing eligible students to receive their refunds without delay.
The ‘No Fees Stress’ policy is part of President Mahama’s broader vision to foster a more inclusive and equitable education system in Ghana. It also fulfills a key promise outlined in the NDC’s manifesto. The government plans to monitor the program’s outcomes and assess its potential expansion to cover additional areas, further reducing financial barriers for students and their families.
This initiative underscores the NDC government’s commitment to supporting Ghanaian students and creating opportunities for all.
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