Special needs education now free in Ghana as government allocates GH₵100m
Special needs education for persons with disability is now free across Ghana.
The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, announced the policy on Monday, saying it forms part of the government’s drive toward inclusive, quality, and equitable education for all citizens.
According to the Minister, the government has allocated GH₵100 million to support the implementation of the free special needs education policy. The funding is expected to cover tuition, learning materials, assistive devices, and support services in special schools and inclusive classrooms nationwide.
Mr. Iddrisu said the initiative marks a major step in removing financial barriers that have prevented many children and adults with disabilities from accessing education. He noted that the policy aligns with Ghana’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4, which calls for inclusive and equitable quality education.
“Special needs education for persons with disabilities in the country is now free,” the Minister stated. “This is part of the government’s journey towards the provision of inclusive, quality, and equitable education in the country.”
Education stakeholders have welcomed the announcement, describing it as a significant boost for families who previously struggled with the cost of specialized learning. Advocacy groups for persons with disabilities have long called for the government to subsidize or fully absorb the cost of special needs education to ensure no child is left behind.
The Ministry of Education is expected to roll out implementation guidelines in the coming weeks, including how the GH₵100 million allocation will be disbursed to schools, training of teachers, and procurement of assistive technology.
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