Patriotic Legal Network Challenges NDC’s Academic User Fees: ‘Where’s the Clarity?

The Patriotic Legal Network (PLN), a non-partisan legal advocacy group, has released a scathing report exposing the contradictions and flaws in the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) education policy.

According to the Statment,the Policy lacks clarity and consistency, not only confuses the public but also raises doubts about the seriousness and preparedness of the NDC to implement such a policy. A well-thought-out policy should have a clear and unified message, which is currently absent in the NDC’s communication.

The Statement Below

The Patriotic Legal Network (PLN) wishes to address the recent proposal made by theflagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in his Youth Manifesto. Theproposal, which aims to pay the academic user fees for freshers to Public Universities, has generated significant debate and concern across various platforms. As members of the academic and legal community, we feel compelled to register our objections tothis proposal and highlight the potential implications for the Ghanaian educationalsystem and the nation at large.

1. The Risk of Student Loan Denials and Potential Dropouts

The first and foremost concern that the PLN raises is the potential risk of denyingstudents access to the student loan scheme if this proposal is implemented. The promise to pay academic user fees may create a false sense of financial security among prospective students, leading to an influx of applications to public universities. However, the lack of clarity on how these fees will be covered and the absence of asustainable funding plan may result in these students being denied access to student loans, which are crucial for covering additional costs such as accommodation, books and living expenses. This, in turn, could lead to an increase in student dropouts, undermining the very purpose of the policy.

2.Inconsistent Messaging and Lack of Cohesion in Policy Communication

The PLN is also concerned about the inconsistent messaging and lack of cohesion inthe communication of this policy by the NDC. Different representatives of the party have made contradictory statements regarding the institutions that will benefit fromthis policy. While some have suggested that all public universities will be included, others have excluded technical universities from the list.

This lack of clarity and consistency not only confuses the public but also raises doubts about the seriousness and preparedness of the NDC to implement such a policy. A well-thought-out policy should have a clear and unified message, which is currently absent in the NDC’s communication.

3.Ambiguity Surrounding the Specific Fees Covered

Another critical issue raised by the PLN is the ambiguity surrounding the specific fees that the NDC’s proposal aims to cover. The manifesto makes a vague reference to“academic user fees” without specifying whether this includes administrative fees, examination fees, or other components of the university bill. The lack of specificity in the manifesto, coupled with the differing statements from party representatives, leaves room for misinterpretation and confusion among prospective students and their families. It is essential for any policy to have clear guidelines on its implementation to avoid potential disputes and misunderstandings.

4. Absence of Costing and Funding Plan

The PLN is deeply concerned about the absence of any detailed communication onthe cost implications of this policy and how it will be funded. The NDC has not provided any estimates of the total cost to the taxpayer, nor have they outlined the source of funding for this ambitious proposal. In a country already grappling with economic challenges, it is irresponsible to propose a policy without a clear financial plan. The lack of transparency on this front raises serious questions about the feasibility and sustainability of the proposal, further reinforcing the perception that this is merely a political gimmick aimed at winning votes rather than a well-thought-out plan to improve access to higher education.

5. A Policy That Lacks Depth and Thoughtfulness

Finally, the PLN strongly believes that the NDC’s proposal is not well-thought-outand lacks the depth and consideration required for a policy of this magnitude. This proposal, like the earlier 24-hour economy proposal made by the flagbearer of the NDC, appears to be more of a populist move rather than a serious commitment to solving the real challenges faced by Ghanaian students.

The fact that key representatives of the NDC, such as the Communication Director, Mr. Sammy Gyamfi, and the National Youth Organizer, Mr. George Opare Addo, have given contradictory explanations of the policy only serves to confirm the state of unpreparedness of the NDC and their flagbearer for the 2024 general elections.

The PLN,therefore, calls on the NDC to reconsider this proposal and provide Ghanaians with a clear, co-hesive, and well-thought-out policy that addresses the realchallenges faced by students in public universities. We urge the general public to critically assess such promises and demand transparency and accountability from those who seek to lead our nation.

In conclusion, the PLN remains committed to promoting policies that are in the best interest of Ghanaian students and the nation at large. We believe that access to higher education is a critical issue that requires serious and thoughtful consideration, not vague and contradictory promises. The future of our nation depends on the quality of our education system, and we must ensure that any policies implemented aresustainable, transparent, and beneficial to all.

Signed,
President
Patriotic Legal Network
Secretary
Patriotic Legal Network
Contacts: Communications Team
024 913 4198 Felix Osafo Marfo
024 522 5483 Dr. Samson Anomah
024 586 8392 Edmond Nkesah
024 619 0861 Hon. Samuel Addai Agyakum
054 361 3071 Kojo Bediako Baryah