Students Perception on free Senior High School Policy and Electoral Choices in the 2024 Election in Ghana

Abstract

The introduction of the FSHS policy has been pivotal in shifting the educational landscape for
students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Through a comprehensive analysis of student
feedback, the research identifies that a significant portion of students perceive the policy as a
breakthrough, facilitating not only their academic engagement but also participation in
extracurricular activities. However, the study also uncovers persistent concerns regarding the
policy's sustainability, with issues such as overcrowded classrooms and unequal distribution of
resources raising questions about the long-term viability of the initiative. Furthermore, the
findings reveal that students' perceptions of the FSHS policy significantly influence their
political affiliations, with many expressing support for the ruling party due to the perceived
benefits of the policy. Conversely, a notable segment of students remains skeptical, suggesting
that the policy is politically motivated than genuinely aimed at addressing systemic educational
challenges. The study underscores the importance of ongoing evaluation and reform to ensure the
FSHS policy meets its intended goals of improving educational access and quality while
maintaining equitable resource allocation. The implications of these findings contribute to the
broader discourse on education policy and its intersection with political dynamics in Ghana