2025 basic education budget of GH₵9.1b highest in 50-years – GES

The Ghana Education Service (GES) says the central government allocation of GH₵9.1 billion as the basic education budget for the 2025 academic year is the highest in the past 50 years.

GES, in a social media post sighted by Pretertiary.com, said the GH₵9.1 billion budgetary allocation represents the John Mahama government’s commitment to restoring the long-desired quality of education

First, the historic budgetary allocation to basic education: Basic education received GH₵9.1 billion in the 2025 budget — the highest allocation in the past 50 years. Foundational learning remains the most crucial stage in every child’s education. However, in recent times, this level was almost neglected. It is fulfilling for us at GES to see genuine government interest in foundational learning again. GES, as an implementing agency, commits to ensuring every Ghanaian child receives the best early years’ education.

Second, the highest budgetary allocation for textbooks: It is heart-warming to note the historic allocation of GH₵564 million — including GH₵415 million from GETFund — for the procurement of textbooks under the new curriculum. This represents the largest single investment in textbooks so far, aimed at strengthening teaching and learning materials across schools. This will go a long way to support learners with resources to complement classroom activities.

Third, sanitary pads distribution: Attracting and retaining our young girls in school is not a luxury, not a privilege, but a necessity. Our girls deserve equal opportunities and access to education like everyone else. In the 21st century, the nation cannot afford to keep girls out of school due to menstrual-related issues. This is why the free distribution of sanitary towels to school-going girls is paramount.

The distribution has already begun in districts such as Ada West, Gushegu, Ga East, Ejura, Ga West, Ledzokuku, etc. Others will follow as the nationwide rollout continues. This intervention supports girls’ education and reduces absenteeism.

Fourth, the highest allocation to Free Senior High School (Free SHS): The goal to not only maintain but also improve the Free SHS policy is on course. The programme has been allocated GH₵3.5 billion under GETFund in 2025 — the highest ever since the programme started. This has enhanced feeding and related services for students. There’s also the established commitment to abolish the double-track system that has challenged the programme.

Fifth, feeding in school: Adjustments in the management of SHS feeding have led to noticeable improvements. Reports from students, teachers, parents, and other stakeholders point to a better feeding system. We continue to solicit feedback from stakeholders as we strive to improve both feeding and teaching in our second-cycle schools.

According to the Ghana Education Service, though the 2025 Education Budget was appropriated barely five months ago, there is already encouraging evidence of some appreciable progress in the sector.

“These developments reflect the continued prioritisation of education as a driver of national growth and social transformation. GES remains committed to making education better,” it said in the social media post.

The Ghana Education Service’s acknowledgment of the highest budgetary allocation to basic education follows the President’s media encounter last Wednesday, September 10, which threw light on some significant developments in the education sector and reaffirmed the central role of education in national development.