Haruna Iddrisu Calls Critics ‘Naysayers’: NDC Government Social Interventions Like Mahama Cares and No Fee Stress Explained

Introduction

In a bold media briefing on November 19, 2025, Haruna Iddrisu, Ghana’s Minister of Education, dismissed critics of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government’s social interventions as mere “naysayers.” Addressing longstanding questions from the media and public about the Mahama administration’s policies, Iddrisu highlighted key programs like Mahama Cares, No Fee Stress, and free schooling for persons with disabilities. This statement underscores the NDC’s commitment to accessible education and social welfare in 2025, responding directly to pre-election skepticism.

These NDC government social interventions aim to reduce financial barriers for Ghanaian families, ensuring no child is left behind due to economic hardship. With significant budget allocations, such as GH¢537.4 million for the No Academic Fee policy, the initiatives form part of President Mahama’s broader ‘Reset Agenda.’ This article provides a clear, pedagogical breakdown to help readers understand these policies, their impacts, and their role in Ghana’s education landscape.

Analysis

Haruna Iddrisu’s remarks reflect a strategic pivot in political discourse, transforming defense into affirmation. Prior to the 2025 elections, the NDC faced repeated queries: “Show us one social intervention policy.” Now in power, the government has not only listed but implemented programs, backed by verifiable funding.

Context of NDC Social Interventions

The NDC’s approach builds on Ghana’s progressive education reforms, emphasizing equity. Programs like free Senior High School (SHS) and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), sustained with GH¢4.2 billion in 2025, address historical disparities. Iddrisu’s emphasis on “answering adequately” positions these as tangible responses to public demands.

Political and Economic Backdrop

In 2025, Ghana’s education sector receives focused investment amid economic recovery. The 7.6% budget slice for first-year fee waivers demonstrates prioritization, alleviating parental stress—a common barrier to enrollment. This analysis reveals how Mahama Cares and similar initiatives align with Sustainable Development Goal 4 on inclusive education.

Summary

During a press briefing, Haruna Iddrisu outlined NDC government social interventions, including Mahama Cares, No Fee Stress, free schooling for persons with disabilities, and the No Academic Fee policy for first-year students. Funded by GH¢537.4 million (7.6% of the 2025 education budget), these relieve financial burdens. The Student Loan Trust Fund now covers Ghana School of Law students, while GH¢4.2 billion supports free SHS and TVET. Iddrisu declared critics as “naysayers,” asserting the government has fully addressed public concerns.

Key Points

Practical Advice

Ghanaian parents, students, and guardians can leverage these NDC social interventions for educational access. Here’s how to apply and benefit:

Applying for No Fee Stress and No Academic Fee Policy

Eligible first-year university students should contact their institutions’ financial aid offices with admission letters and proof of financial need. The GH¢537.4 million fund covers fees directly, reducing out-of-pocket costs. Verify eligibility via the Ministry of Education portal.

Accessing Mahama Cares and Disability Schooling

For Mahama Cares, register through local NDC offices or the program’s hotline, providing household income details. Persons with disabilities qualify automatically for free schooling; submit medical certification to district education directors for enrollment support.

Student Loan Trust Fund Expansion

Ghana School of Law students can now apply online via the Trust Fund’s website, using student ID and program confirmation. Repayment terms remain flexible, interest-free during studies.

Free SHS and TVET Enrollment

All secondary-level students benefit automatically. Parents should monitor the Ghana Education Service app for placement updates and supply requirements, covered under the GH¢4.2 billion initiative.

Early application ensures seamless access—deadlines align with academic calendars.

Points of Caution

While these interventions are robust, users should note potential challenges:

• Funding disbursements may face delays due to bureaucratic processes; track via official channels.
• Eligibility verification requires accurate documentation to avoid rejections.
• Naysayers’ criticisms, as labeled by Iddrisu, often focus on sustainability—monitor annual budgets for continuity.
• Over-reliance on government programs; supplement with personal savings for non-covered costs like uniforms.
• Report fraud in program access through the Ministry’s whistleblower line.

Comparison

Compared to the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration, the NDC’s 2025 social interventions show expansions:

Vs. Previous Free SHS Implementation

NPP introduced free SHS in 2017, but NDC allocates GH¢4.2 billion in 2025 for enhancement, including infrastructure upgrades not emphasized pre-2025.

Student Loan Trust Fund

Pre-NDC expansion excluded professional schools like Ghana School of Law; now inclusive, broadening access beyond NPP’s scope.

New Initiatives

Mahama Cares and No Fee Stress are novel, absent in prior terms, directly targeting tertiary first-years with dedicated 7.6% budget share—higher specificity than past welfare schemes.

Overall, NDC builds incrementally, verifying progress through measurable funding.

Legal Implications

These NDC government social interventions comply with Ghana’s Constitution (Article 25 on education rights) and the Education Act, 2008 (Act 778), mandating free basic and accessible secondary education. Budget allocations, including GH¢537.4 million and GH¢4.2 billion, are approved via parliamentary processes under the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921). No legal challenges reported as of November 19, 2025. Students denied access can seek redress through the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ).

Conclusion

Haruna Iddrisu’s declaration marks a confident milestone for NDC social interventions, from Mahama Cares to No Fee Stress. By addressing critics head-on and deploying substantial funds like GH¢4.2 billion for free SHS/TVET, the Mahama government advances equitable education. These policies not only answer pre-2025 doubts but set a pedagogical foundation for Ghana’s youth. Families are encouraged to engage actively, ensuring the ‘Reset Agenda’ delivers for all.

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