Public Perceptions of Government Communication Regarding Ghana’s Free Senior High School Policy

Abstract

This research examines public perceptions of government communication on Ghana’s Free Senior High School (SHS) policy. The human capital, two-way symmetrical communication and resistance theories underpinned this study. A total of 491 Ghanaians responded to a set of questionnaires distributed to them via Google Forms. Data was analysed using cross-tabulations, means, standard deviations, independent samples t-test and One Way ANOVA. Respondents perceived the Free SHS policy as a good initiative which has increased secondary school enrolment, brought financial relief to parents and guardians, and promoted equity in secondary education. Nevertheless, respondents saw the policy as inadequate in achieving quality secondary education due to implementation challenges. Respondents perceived awareness creation on the policy as very effective. However, public education and advocacy on the policy by the government were not very effective. Also, government communication has not been very effective in explaining the policy to persuade the public to fully support it. Significant differences manifested in the views of respondents on the level of effectiveness of government communication on the policy due to differences in educational backgrounds. Respondents identified factors including transparent communication, reliable funding source, periodic research and evaluation, improved consultation and de-politicization as critical to the sustainability of the policy. The theoretical and policy implications of the findings have been outlined in the study. The Ministries of Education and Information should collaborate with the Free SHS Secretariat to organize training programmes on participatory, transparent and clear government communication strategies to all relevant stakeholders to promote public understanding of the policy.