President John Dramani Mahama has officially launched the “No-Fee Stress” policy, committing GH¢499.8 million to cover academic fees for all first-year students in public tertiary institutions across Ghana.
The landmark initiative, a bold and transformative move to expand access to higher education, first announced during President Mahama’s February 2025 State of the Nation Address, is designed to ease the financial strain on students and families, ensuring that no Ghanaian is denied tertiary education due to economic hardship.
Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson confirmed the allocation during the presentation of the 2025 Budget Statement to Parliament in March.
No Fee
He explained that the funds will be channelled through the uncapped Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), allowing for dedicated and uninterrupted financing of the policy.
To streamline the process, the government has launched a digital application portal where first-year students can register and confirm their eligibility. Once verified, fees will be paid directly to tertiary institutions by GETFund, eliminating bureaucratic delays that often hamper the academic calendar.
The government’s commitment to inclusive education extends even further. In a complementary announcement, President Mahama revealed a full scholarship scheme for persons with disabilities (PWDs), covering all fees throughout their tertiary education. This initiative is expected to provide a much-needed boost to marginalized communities and support the government’s broader inclusion agenda.
Additionally, the Mahama administration has introduced the MahamaCares initiative—a Ghana Medical Trust Fund designed to offer financial support to individuals battling chronic illnesses not fully covered under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
Demonstrating personal commitment, President Mahama has pledged six months of his salary to the fund, with Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang contributing four months of hers.
These far-reaching reforms underscore the administration’s commitment to social equity, education, and healthcare for all.
By removing financial barriers and investing directly in the welfare of its people, the Mahama government is laying the groundwork for a more empowered and inclusive Ghana.