Ghana is making history with a heartwarming commitment to its most vulnerable students. Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has announced that special needs education will be entirely free of charge beginning this year, lifting a significant financial burden from thousands of families who have long struggled to afford specialized learning for their children.

The announcement came during a joyful occasion, the commissioning of the Gloria Boatema Dadey Nifa Basic School in Adukrom, a project brought to life by the KGL Foundation. Against this backdrop of educational progress, Minister Iddrisu shared news that promises to transform lives across the country.

The initiative goes far beyond simply waiving tuition fees. The government has allocated a substantial 100 million Ghanaian cedis from the 2026 Ghana Education Trust Fund specifically for this purpose. This dedicated funding will cover not just administrative costs but also the high-tech infrastructure and assistive devices that enable truly inclusive learning. From specialized equipment to adaptive technology, students with special needs will finally have access to the tools they deserve.

"I'm happy to announce, proudly and authoritatively, that beginning this year, 2026, learning for special needs education in Ghana under President Mahama will be free and funded adequately by the Ghana Education Trust Fund," Minister Iddrisu declared to an audience of traditional leaders, education advocates, and foundation representatives, all of whom celebrated this victory for social justice.

The Ripple Effect

This landmark decision reflects a profound shift in how Ghana views its educational priorities. Minister Iddrisu emphasized that the nation's economic future depends directly on the quality of early childhood development. By investing in children from their earliest school years, particularly those with special needs who have historically been underserved, Ghana is building a foundation for long-term prosperity.

The minister shared a powerful insight that drives this initiative: "When a child gets it right at age six, you can predict the 18 years of that child." This understanding has motivated President John Dramani Mahama's administration to reposition national resources toward foundational learning, ensuring every child has an equal opportunity to succeed.

The policy represents more than financial support. It sends a clear message to families across Ghana that their children with special needs matter, that their education is valued, and that no child will be left behind due to financial constraints. Parents who have spent sleepless nights worrying about school fees and specialized equipment can now breathe easier, knowing their government stands behind them.

The impact will extend throughout communities across the Eastern Region and beyond. When students with special needs receive proper education and support, they contribute their unique talents and perspectives to society. They become teachers, artists, entrepreneurs, and leaders. This investment in inclusive education strengthens the entire nation's social fabric.

As Ghana implements this ambitious programme, it sets an inspiring example for other nations in the region and around the world, proving that when governments prioritize equity and inclusion, transformative change becomes possible.