Chief criticizes double track Free SHS critics proposing 24-hour economy

The Chief of Yefri in the Nkoranza North Constituency of the Bono East Region, Nana Takyi Poku Gyimah, has voiced strong criticism against detractors of the double track system introduced during the early stages of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy.
He described their criticisms as baseless and illogical, particularly in light of their current promotion of a 24-hour economy proposal.
Speaking during a courtesy call by the NPP Vice-Presidential Candidate, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, Nana Takyi, a seasoned educationist with the Ghana Education Service, defended the double track system as a necessary and innovative solution.
He explained that the introduction of the Free SHS policy led to a significant increase in school enrollment, which required the government to devise a stopgap measure to accommodate the surge in students.
The double track system was implemented to maximize the use of limited resources, a move that Nana Takyi deemed both practical and forward-thinking.
Despite its utility, Nana Takyi lamented that critics harshly condemned the double track system, labeling it as evidence of poor planning by the policymakers.
However, these same critics are now advocating for a 24-hour economy, where people would work in shifts around the clock. The Chief questioned the logic of those who dismissed the double track system’s ingenuity yet now champion a 24-hour economy without offering a clear explanation of how it would function.
During the meeting, Nana Takyi also praised the NPP government for its contributions to the development of his area.
He singled out Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the party’s 2024 running mate and former Education Minister, for his leadership in implementing the Free SHS policy and introducing the double track system to address initial challenges.
According to the Chief, such bold leadership is essential in tackling the various challenges facing the nation.
In response, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh expressed his gratitude to the Chief for acknowledging the NPP government’s achievements.
He urged the Chief and his subjects to maintain their confidence in the NPP and support Dr. Bawumia’s vision for the country’s future.
Dr. Opoku Prempeh also appealed for their votes in favor of the party’s presidential candidate and the parliamentary candidate for Nkoranza North Constituency, Jacqueline Boatemaa Bonsu.