Examining the Politics of Social Policy Implementation: A Case of Free Senior High School Policy in Ghana

Abstract

The strength of democracy is reflected in the “expressions of mass demands for better social safety nets especially in the sectors of health and education services. However, for mass demands to be translated into policy, there need to be an opportunity that numbers can mobilize, and that mobilization counts politically. The strength and quality of democracy makes it possible for civil society, popular organizations and political parties to emerge and consolidate as organizations that can serve to mobilize voters and put demands for networks of social protection on the agenda.” In the context of Ghana‟s education policy, this study: i) explore the influence of electoral politics on the adoption and implementation of the Free Senior High School (SHS) education policy; and ii) examine the emerging challenges associated with the implementation of the Free Senior High School (SHS) education. In addressing these objectives, the study adopts a qualitative research approach. Semi-structured interview guide was used to interview key stakeholders in the implementation of the Free SHS education policy in Ghana who were purposively selected from a cross section of management of second cycle institutions, public sector organizations, civil service societies, and political parties. Using a systematic content analysis for analysing the interview data gathered, the study finds that the free SHS education policy was a major political tool for winning elections. Particularly the adoption and implementation of the free SHS social policy was considered a political tool to win votes, although it was a constitutional right and was in line with the national development agenda and a provision of the 1992 constitution. Notwithstanding the policies relevance for bridging the inequality gap and promoting national development, various challenges categorized into: i) institutional and ii) infrastructural challenges hamper its implementation success. Thus, the Free SHS education policy currently suffer from politicization and over-centralized administration which has led to the delay in achieving desired outcomes. Other infrastructural challenges also include the supply of logistics and financial constraints as a result of delayed payment of school grants to both suppliers and heads of schools. Among others, this study therefore recommends1 that stakeholder collaboration should be strengthened with clear policy guidelines developed and communicated to all relevant stakeholders for effective implementation. Keywords: Education Policy, Free Senior High School, Social Policy, Politics, Ghana