The Ghana National Council of Private Schools (GNACOPS) has applauded the Government of Ghana for a historic and progressive step integrating 60 private Senior High Schools (SHSs) into the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy for the 2025/2026 academic year.

In a statement issued on July 20, signed by GNACOPS’ National Executive Director, Oberto Nana Kwasi Gyetuah, the council expressed sincere gratitude to the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service (GES) for acknowledging the vital contribution of private schools to the country’s education system.

“This progressive move marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s educational transformation journey,” the statement read.

“It underscores the Government’s commitment to inclusive, collaborative education delivery and reaffirms the important role of private schools in advancing national development goals.”

The 60 selected private SHSs, representing all regions, have been approved to admit students under the Free SHS initiative for the upcoming academic year.

GNACOPS stressed that these schools are expected to maintain high standards of transparency, accountability, and academic excellence.

The council also acknowledged concerns from private schools not yet included in the programme, assuring that future phases of the initiative will expand the number of participating schools.

“We encourage continued patience, preparation, and compliance with regulatory standards,” the statement read.

Additionally, GNACOPS encouraged the newly approved schools to act as “ambassadors of excellence,” demonstrating that the private sector can be a capable partner in providing free, equitable, and quality education to all Ghanaians.

In conclusion, GNACOPS reaffirmed its commitment to shaping education policy, strengthening stakeholder engagement, and ensuring that private education continues to play a pivotal role in Ghana’s national development agenda.