The 18-year-old SHS graduate, who was listening to Oyerepa TV, has subsequently caused a ruckus online among the public with his comments over how Ghana's youth will vote in the next elections. Benefiting from the government's Free SHS policy, the young guy declared he would vote not because he was grateful for the educational program but rather because of financial hardship.

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and the New Patriotic Party launched the Free SHS policy, which has made it possible for thousands of students nationwide to receive free secondary school, relieving some of the parental load. Many believe that these young recipients, who are now able to vote, will demonstrate their gratitude by supporting Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP's presidential candidate.

However, this graduate offers an alternative account. "As much as I appreciate the fact that Free SHS is beneficial, I'll never be complacent about the family economic pressures that still persist," he stated during a live television appearance."I completed SHS and registered to vote, but just because I received Free SHS doesn't mean I will vote for that reason," he declared. "I will vote based on the economic hardship my parents are going through."

The TV host was shocked and questioned him about why he would not support his education if the government paid for it. Innocently, he responded that his parents still struggle to provide them with other necessities for the family, despite receiving payment for their school tuition and meals. "My parents frequently lament the rising cost of goods and the worsening state of the economy. They claim that there is too much difficulty, which prevents people from purchasing their items," he clarified.

He declared that he was now concentrating on the future and that he intended to attend college. How can I be able to pay for my education if I don't support a government that will boost the economy and allow my parents to earn more money?

Since then, Ghanaians have reacted differently to his statement. While some have called the young man "ungrateful," others have backed him, arguing that the youth's votes—which are largely expected—cannot be taken for granted because of the free SHS policy alone because they too must deal with more pressing economic realities.



Source: Oyerapa TV