First-year tertiary students for the 2024/2025 academic year who have already paid their fees will receive refunds, Education Minister-designate Haruna Iddrisu has said.

“The refunds will ensure fairness and uphold the promise of free tertiary education for all eligible students,” he explained.

He made the announcement during his vetting by Parliament’s Appointments Committee today, Monday, January 20, 2025.

According to Mr Iddrisu, the move is part of the free tertiary education policy proposed by President John Dramani Mahama.

The policy is key to President Mahama’s education agenda, aimed at easing the financial burden on families and increasing access to higher education.

However, questions have been raised concerning the policy’s mechanism and funding.

Mr Iddrisu assured the committee the Education Ministry would work closely with stakeholders to address these concerns, ensuring a successful and seamless roll out the programme.