The Minister of Education, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, has announced that beginning in 2026, all learners with special needs across Ghana will receive free education.
The initiative, he revealed, will be fully financed by the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) to ease the financial pressures on students and their families.
Mr. Iddrisu made the declaration during the commissioning of the Gloria Boatema Dadey–Nifa Basic School in Adukrom, located in the Okere District of the Eastern Region.
The state-of-the-art facility was constructed by the KGL Foundation.
He disclosed that GETFund has allocated GH¢100 million in its 2026 budget to support and expand special education nationwide.
The funds, he noted, will be directed toward procuring essential teaching and learning tools, including assistive devices for learners with special needs.
The minister also underscored the urgent need for Ghana to realign its educational priorities by placing stronger emphasis on basic education.
He stressed that a firm foundation in early learning is crucial to shaping long-term academic success and reaffirmed President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to boosting investment in foundational education.
“It is said that when a child gets it right at age six, you can predict their next 18 years,” Mr Iddrisu stated. “It is therefore important that Ghana repositions and redirects its investment into strengthening basic education.
President Mahama will do everything possible to enhance foundational learning and improve outcomes at the basic level.”
He further added: “I am happy to announce, proudly and authoritatively, that starting this year, 2026, special needs education in Ghana under President Mahama will be free and fully funded by GETFund.
An amount of GH¢100 million has been earmarked in the 2026 GETFund formula to support special needs education, including the acquisition of required teaching tools and assistive devices.”
