Universal Basic Education Programmes and Secondary School Enrollment in Accra, Ghana: A Long-term Impact Analysis

Universal Basic Education (UBE) programmes in Ghana aim to provide free primary education to all children aged six years and above, with secondary education being a significant next step. A mixed-methods approach combining survey data and qualitative interviews was employed to assess changes in secondary school enrollment following UBE implementation. Secondary school enrollment increased by 15% among children who benefited directly from the UBE programme, with a notable trend towards more girls enrolling compared to boys. UBE has had a positive yet uneven impact on secondary education uptake, particularly beneficial for those in targeted communities. Future policies should focus on improving infrastructure and teacher training in underserved areas while maintaining the UBE programme's core principles.