The former Minister for Education and Member of Parliament for Bosomtwe Constituency, Hon. Dr. Osei Yaw Adutwum, has explained that the introduction of the “double track system” into Ghana’s Free Senior High School (FSHS) policy was a strategic intervention aimed at ensuring that no child was left behind, particularly the vulnerable and poor.
The double track system, which was rolled out under the leadership of the former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, was introduced in response to a significant increase in enrollment numbers after the implementation of the FSHS policy.
With existing infrastructure unable to accommodate the growing student population, the government resorted to the double track to allow schools to operate in two streams—Green and Gold—so that every student could have the opportunity to attend school without delay.
Speaking on Pent TV’s ‘Asembi Morning Show’ hosted by J.B. Danquah, Dr. Adutwum, who was then a Deputy Minister for Education during the policy rollout, revealed that his inspiration came from the year-round academic calendar used in California, USA.
According to him, the system was presented to the then Minister for Education, Hon. Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, who welcomed the idea.
The President also endorsed it after understanding its potential to increase access to education for all, especially the underprivileged.
“After studying California’s year-round system, I introduced the concept to my then boss, Hon. Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, and he welcomed it. The President also said that if this system will make every child, especially the poor, have access to education, then I have to accept it,” Dr. Adutwum disclosed.
Dr. Adutwum further responded to criticisms from the then opposition party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), who are still continuing the double track system after coming into power.
He insisted that the policy was effective and necessary at the time, especially in addressing the infrastructure deficit in senior high schools.
“The system is a very good one which has even been acknowledged by the current government. I believe we must also continue to empower STEM education because it is now a game changer in the world’s education system,” he noted.
He also stated that the STEM initiative started under his leadership must not be abandoned, as it holds the key to transforming Ghana’s educational landscape and aligning it with global trends.
Looking ahead, Dr. Adutwum has recently confirmed his intention to contest for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearership, expressing confidence in his track record and the goodwill he enjoys among Ghanaians.
“I have made it known publicly that I want to become the flag bearer of the NPP and possibly the next President of Ghana,” he said, adding that his years of experience in education, both in Ghana and abroad, position him to lead the nation effectively.
His announcement has been received warmly by the public who believe his reforms in the education sector have positively impacted many lives.
By; Nana Yaw Owusu
