The Ghana Federation of Disability Organizations (GFD) has formally expressed its profound appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama and his administration following the implementation of the tuition-free tertiary education policy for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
Atsu Homadzi, President of the Federation, highlighted that the initiative—informally dubbed ‘No Fees Stress’—introduced by the incumbent administration, has provided significant relief and expanded opportunities for PWDs to access higher education. He noted that historically, many qualified PWDs who gain admission to tertiary institutions are unable to enroll due to financial constraints.
During an interview on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM’s Nyankonton Mu Nsem, Mr. Homadzi affirmed the policy’s impact: “We extend our gratitude to President Mahama and his administration for this introduced policy. This initiative is vital because numerous PWDs have previously been excluded from tertiary education due to a lack of resources. This policy has now paved a clear path for us to pursue higher learning and contribute meaningfully to our nation.”
Furthermore, Mr. Homadzi revealed that preparations are well underway for the official launch of the free tertiary education program. He detailed the groundwork already completed: “The government recently established a committee, chaired by the Deputy Education Minister, of which I am a member. This committee has been instrumental in identifying PWD students who have gained tertiary admission. Under the ‘No Fees Stress’ initiative, admission fees for these students have already been disbursed, and the government is committed to covering their subsequent annual fees until they complete their studies.”
He also shed light on an adapted disbursement strategy designed to overcome practical barriers. Recognizing that accessing the standard ‘No Fees Stress’ online portal would be challenging for the majority of PWD members, the Federation adopted a direct approach.
“We have bypassed the portal by engaging directly with the tertiary institutions to collect data on PWD students, allowing us to remit the fees straight to the schools,” he explained.
“The tuition-free policy is already in effect and being utilized by our members. The final step remaining is the formal inauguration of this successful initiative.”
He added that they will work with various universities to have professional medical officers validate whether a student claiming to be a person with disability is indeed one.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
