The committee tasked with drafting a roadmap for free tertiary education for persons with disabilities (PWDs) has held its inaugural meeting at the Ministry of Education in Accra on Friday, June 20, 2025.
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Established by Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu, the eight-member committee is co-chaired by Deputy Minister for Education, Dr. Clement Apaak, and Mr. Joseph Atsu Hormadzi, National President of the Ghana Federation of Disability Organizations (GFD).
In his welcome address, Dr. Apaak reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to inclusive education. He emphasized that the initiative reflects the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and President John Mahama’s dedication to improving access for disadvantaged groups.
“The Ministry of Education is strongly committed to promoting inclusive education,” Dr. Apaak stated.
Mr. Hormadzi praised the initiative, highlighting the financial struggles many students with disabilities face in accessing tertiary education. He described the policy as a timely intervention that could help reduce dropout rates.
“Many of our students are currently stranded because they cannot afford tuition. If you don’t pay, you can’t register. This move offers real hope,” he said. “We appreciate His Excellency the President, the Minister, and the Deputy Minister for setting up this committee.”
Also present was Dr. Saajida Shiraz, CEO of the Students’ Loan Trust. Her team delivered a presentation titled “Facilitating Access to Enhanced Tertiary Education Financing for Students with Disabilities.”
This marks a critical step toward ensuring educational equity and implementing a flagship campaign promise of the NDC.
