Ghana to Offer Free Education for Individuals with Disabilities from 2026: Full Policy Breakdown
Introduction
On December 3, 2025, Minister of Education Haruna Iddrisu announced a landmark policy: free education for all individuals with disabilities in Ghana starting January 1, 2026. This initiative, unveiled during the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, aims to eliminate financial barriers and promote inclusive learning environments. The policy represents a transformative step toward equity in Ghana’s education system, directly addressing the needs of marginalized communities.
The announcement underscores Ghana’s commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), which mandates inclusive education. By removing tuition fees, the government seeks to ensure that children and adults with special needs can access quality learning opportunities without economic hardship.
Analysis
Current Educational Barriers for Disabled Individuals
Before this policy, individuals with disabilities faced significant obstacles, including:
- High tuition costs at integrated and special-needs schools.
- Limited availability of assistive devices (e.g., hearing aids, braille tools).
- Insufficient government funding for specialized infrastructure.
- Geographic disparities, with fewer resources in rural regions like Volta and Ashanti.
According to the World Bank, over 60% of children with disabilities in sub-Saharan Africa do not attend school. In Ghana, many families spend up to GH₵8 daily per child on basic needs, leaving little for education.
Government’s Strategic Approach
The policy includes three core components:
- Free tuition for all students with disabilities enrolled in the 39 integrated and special-needs schools nationwide.
- Increased stipends
from GH₵8 to GH₵15 per day for students in these institutions.
- Annual GETFund allocations of GH₵65–100 million for infrastructure, training, and assistive technologies.
Minister Iddrisu emphasized that the policy is “an enduring legacy” to address historical marginalization. President Mahama will formally launch the program in early 2026.
Assistive Technology and Infrastructure Upgrades
The initiative prioritizes assistive devices such as:
- Hearing amplification systems for deaf students.
- Adaptive software for visually impaired learners.
- Specialized furniture and sensory-friendly classrooms.
These tools will be distributed through partnerships with international NGOs and local manufacturers to reduce costs and boost accessibility.
District Assemblies Common Fund Expansion
President Mahama directed an increase in the District Assemblies Common Fund allocation for disabilities from 3% to 5%. This fund must be managed locally, with the Federation of Disabled People overseeing implementation. The change ensures resources reach community-level projects, such as:
- Renovating inaccessible school entrances.
- Training teachers in inclusive pedagogy.
- Establishing regional resource centers.
Summary
The free education policy for individuals with disabilities marks a pivotal shift in Ghana’s educational landscape. By covering tuition fees, boosting stipends, and mandating substantial GETFund investments, the government aims to:
- Eliminate financial exclusion.
- Modernize infrastructure and technology.
- Empower local governance through increased district funding.
Implementation will begin in January 2026, with the GETFund Act amendment pending parliamentary approval. Success hinges on collaboration between federal agencies, local assemblies, and disability advocacy groups.
Key Points
- Effective Date: January 1, 2026.
- Beneficiaries: All individuals with disabilities in Ghana’s 39 integrated and special-needs schools.
- Funding: Annual GETFund allocation of GH₵65–100 million; district fund increased to 5%.
- Assistive Devices: Provision of hearing aids, adaptive software, and sensory tools.
- Stipend Increase: From GH₵8 to GH₵15 daily per student.
Practical Advice
For Parents and Guardians
Families can take the following steps to access the new benefits:
- Register your child in an accredited integrated or special-needs school before December 2025.
- Contact local disability federations for assistive device applications.
- Monitor district assembly announcements regarding fund disbursements.
For Educational Institutions
Schools should:
- Update enrollment records to reflect students’ disability statuses.
- Collaborate with GETFund officers to plan infrastructure upgrades.
- Train staff on inclusive teaching methods using government-provided resources.
For Advocates and NGOs
Organizations can support the policy by:
- Providing expertise on assistive technology implementation.
- Evaluating school accessibility and reporting gaps to authorities.
- Mobilizing community awareness campaigns.
Points of Caution
While the policy is progressive, stakeholders must address potential challenges:
- Funding Delays: Parliamentary approval of the GETFund amendment could affect timelines.
- Geographic Disparities: Rural schools may face logistical hurdles in receiving resources.
- Teacher Training Gaps: Existing educators may require specialized workshops to support diverse needs.
- Administrative Burden: Local assemblies must develop transparent processes for fund distribution.
Comparison with Global Policies
Ghana’s initiative aligns with international benchmarks:
| Country | Key Feature | Annual Funding per Student |
|---|---|---|
| Norway | Universal free education, including tertiary level | $12,000 |
| Brazil | Inclusive education law since 1990 | $5,000 |
| Ghana | Free tuition for students with disabilities (2026) | GH₵15 daily stipend |
Like Brazil, Ghana emphasizes local implementation through district funds. However, Norway’s higher per-student investment highlights room for future growth in Ghana’s policy.
Legal Implications
The policy triggers several legal actions:
- GETFund Act Amendment: Required to mandate minimum annual allocations for disability education.
- District Fund Compliance: Local assemblies must adhere to the 5% allocation directive, with audits by the Federation of Disabled People.
- Anti-Discrimination Enforcement: Schools failing to admit students with disabilities may face sanctions under the Persons with Disabilities Act (Act 1158).
Conclusion
Ghana’s free education policy for individuals with disabilities is a transformative step toward an inclusive society. By removing financial barriers and investing in infrastructure, the government aims to fulfill its international obligations and empower a marginalized demographic. Success will depend on sustained political will, efficient fund management, and active participation from families, schools, and advocates. As the policy rolls out in 2026, Ghana could serve as a regional model for disability inclusion in education.
FAQ
When does the free education policy start?
The policy begins on January 1, 2026.
Which schools are included?
The 39 integrated and special-needs schools across Ghana, particularly in Ashanti and Volta regions.
How will stipends change?
Daily stipends will increase from GH₵8 to GH₵15 per student.
Who oversees district fund allocation?
The Federation of Disabled People will manage local fund distribution.
What assistive devices will be provided?
Hearing aids, braille tools, adaptive software, and sensory-friendly classroom equipment.
Leave a comment