The National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu has commended the government for introducing the Free SHS policy, which has increased access to secondary education in the country.

Speaking at the opening of a three-day Conference of Zongo Chiefs in Kyebi on Thursday, the revered Islamic cleric, who is renowned for his advocacy on education, commended the President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and his Vice, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for the Free SHS policy.

"We are grateful to His Excellency the President and his Vice for this policy they have introduced regarding education;" said Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu.

The National Chief Imam added that education is good in the affairs of man because it makes life better.

"When there is education and there is knowledge, our affairs will be orderly and good."

Sheikh Osman, who is an outstanding educationist, having founded many Islamic schools and trained several Islamic teachers, has never hidden his passion for the pursuit of knowledge, as well as his admiration for any venture which seeks to expand access to education, especially for young people.

The Free SHS policy, introduced by Nana Akufo-Addo upon assuming office in 2017 has been hailed as one of the greatest social intervention policies in the history of the country by any government.

The policy has expanded access to secondary education to JHS graduates, with rate of admission increasing significantly in the past three years.

Records indicate that SHS enrollment has increased by over 65% since the introduction of the policy.