The Dagbon Advocacy Network has called on the government of John Mahama to reform the student allowance system and promote sustainable food production in training colleges across the country.
According to the group, the proposed reforms will help optimize resource utilization, improve the quality of education, and foster self-sufficiency within training institutions.
The Network advocates for replacing the current student allowance system with accessible and low-interest student loans for all students. This, they argue, would allow the government to redirect funds toward upgrading educational infrastructure and hiring more teachers, ultimately enhancing the learning experience for students.
In a press statement signed by the Network’s National Coordinator, Mahamadu Rafiq, the group also recommended discontinuing the feeding program in training colleges. Instead, they propose a policy requiring these institutions to establish and manage their own farms.
He explained that such a policy would enable training colleges to produce their own food, generate income through sales, and serve as models for sustainable agriculture and entrepreneurship.
“Ghana’s vast land resources make it unnecessary for the government to purchase foodstuffs, and by promoting self-sufficiency in food production, training colleges can contribute to the country’s agricultural development,” Rafiq stated.
He further assured that the Network is committed to collaborating with the Ministry of Education and other stakeholders to drive positive change in Ghana’s education sector.
