The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has announced that education for persons with special needs will be made completely free starting this year, 2026, as part of government efforts to promote inclusivity and equal access to education.
According to the Minister, the policy will cover learners enrolled in special schools and inclusive education institutions across the country. He explained that the initiative is aimed at removing financial barriers that prevent children with disabilities from accessing quality education and achieving their full potential.
Mr. Iddrisu stated that funding for the free special needs education programme will be supported by the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), ensuring the provision of teaching and learning materials, assistive devices, and other essential resources required to enhance learning outcomes for persons with special needs.
He noted that education remains a fundamental right and stressed that no child should be denied schooling due to physical, intellectual, or developmental challenges. The Minister added that the policy forms part of broader reforms within the education sector to strengthen inclusive education and improve conditions in special schools nationwide.
The announcement has been welcomed by parents, disability advocacy groups, and education stakeholders, who have long called for increased government support for special needs education. Many believe the policy will significantly reduce the financial burden on families and help improve enrolment, retention, and performance of learners with disabilities.
The government says implementation of the policy will begin immediately in 2026, with further measures expected to be rolled out to enhance infrastructure, teacher training, and support services for special needs education across Ghana.
