Egyptian parliament member Snai Al-Saeed of the Egyptian Democratic Social Party has submitted a parliamentary question to the House of Representatives, directed at the Minister of Education and Technical Education. The query focuses on the school feeding program, specifically the oversight of food supply and distribution, and verification of its actual delivery to eligible students in all schools. Al-Saeed emphasized the importance of ensuring the program's resources achieve their intended goal.
Al-Saeed's question comes as the state allocates financial resources to provide school meals, making it crucial to verify that these resources meet their primary objective. She inquired about the total number of students targeted by the program, the number of actual beneficiaries in each governorate and educational stage, and how the ministry ensures meals reach students within schools. The lawmaker also asked about the ministry's inspection and review processes.
The parliament member sought information on the ministry's procedures for verifying the delivery of meals to students inside schools, rather than just being stored in warehouses. She also asked if the ministry conducts surprise inspections and reviews of supply and distribution records, matching delivered quantities with the number of present and benefiting students.
Al-Saeed requested details on the oversight of supplying companies, any reported violations, and the actions taken. She also inquired about measures to prevent any eligible student from being denied meals and to hold accountable those involved in manipulation or negligence. The lawmaker demanded a detailed report from the Ministry of Education.
The Ministry of Education and Technical Education had previously announced that it would complete the supply of school meals starting November 1. A table of supply schedules for various governorates was released. This move aims to ensure the program's continuity and effectiveness.
Al-Saeed stressed that oversight of the school feeding program is not merely an administrative formality but a direct responsibility concerning the health of students, protection of public funds, and ensuring support reaches its intended recipients. She urged the ministry to provide a documented statement.
The issue highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in managing public programs. The parliament's attention to this matter underscores the need for effective oversight to guarantee the program's success and the well-being of its beneficiaries.
Key points
- Ensuring the delivery of school meals to eligible students.
- Conducting oversight of the school feeding program.
- Preventing denial of meals to eligible students.