Geoffrey Kabutey Ocansey, Executive Director of Revenue Mobilisation Africa, has proposed that the government adopt a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model for the construction of new basic and secondary schools.
The tax analyst stated that it would be more prudent for the government to partner with the private sector in constructing the new schools, specifically utilizing a Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) agreement.
He commented that investing in educational infrastructure was a positive step, and the government ought to be commended for the initiative.
This proposal follows the announcement by the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, of major investments in Ghana’s basic education sector.
The initiative is aimed at expanding access, improving infrastructure, and enhancing the quality of learning materials.
The Minister made this known on Thursday, November 13, when he presented the 2026 Budget Statement and Economic Policy to Parliament.
He disclosed the government’s commitment to constructing 200 new Junior High Schools, 200 new Primary Schoolsa and 200 new Kindergartens across the country.
In addition, the plans include building 400 four-unit teachers’ bungalows and 400 places of convenience to improve the welfare of teachers and enhance learning conditions, particularly in deprived areas.
Commenting on the investment, Mr. Ocansey commended the government, asserting that these investments will not only expand the education sector but also provide a better learning environment for students.
He then elaborated on his PPP proposal, suggesting a financial mechanism to complement the construction:
”I urge the government to work with the private sector or construction companies in a Public-Private Partnership under a Build, Operate, and Transfer agreement. If this initiative is pursued, it would be far better. Especially in the area of secondary education, and to elevate some of these schools to different categories, we could even allow parents who can afford to pay fees for their wards and want them to attend Category A schools, to pay a nominal amount for their wards in secondary schools.”
Meanwhile, Mr. Ocansey also commended the Finance Minister, stating: “Ato Forson has decided to listen, so he is ‘forcing’ [a play on words]. He has decided to listen to the Civil Society Organisations (CSOs).
He had his plans, but he also captured some of the suggestions proposed by the CSOs, and that is positive.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
