In the explanatory notes, the government indicated that it is “constrained” to prioritise free education to basic school rather than extend it to both basic and senior secondary education.
“The constraint is imposed by the resources at the disposal of the government. Imperatively, government must aspire to guarantee that every child completes the most critical years of schooling by using available resources to realise that aspiration.”
The explanation added that the omission does not undermine the importance of providing free secondary education if limited resources did pose a formidable constraint.
Nevertheless, it stated that by focusing on basic education and progressively expanding access to higher levels of education, the provision sets a realistic path toward universal education, ensuring that the most essential stages of learning are accessible to all.
“This is to maintain the status quo where basic education is free, compulsory, and accessible.”
Further, government justified that the provision was amended to include both literacy and numeracy, highlighting their importance as basic skills for all citizens.
“Numeracy measures in importance with literacy and both subjects are necessary for both living. Moreover, they equip people with the skill set to manage tasks such as budgeting and understanding information. This express inclusion of numeracy in the provision ensures that citizens are prepared to engage effectively in society and the economy.” the note pointed out.
This provision, the note stated, equally underpins the fact that basic education is pivotal in enhancing further learning and economic participation.
