Ghana's Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has assured that all senior high schools in the country have enough provisions for feeding this term, addressing concerns over the government's ability to provide uninterrupted meals for students. The assurance comes at a critical moment, as the new academic year gets underway. Iddrisu made the statement during a visit to schools in the Western Region, according to reports from graphic.com.gh.
The minister's statement follows a tragic incident in Gusheigu, where a father took his own life after struggling to raise money for his son's senior high school admission costs. This case highlights the challenges faced by families despite the Free Senior High School policy, which promises tuition-free education. However, families are still being asked to find cash for items and charges outside the free package, leading to concerns over the policy's effectiveness.
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has launched an investigation into senior high school heads accused of forcing parents to buy prospectus items, often at inflated prices, before their children can be admitted. This probe aims to address concerns over extra costs associated with senior high school admission. The investigation is ongoing, with no findings yet made public. The GES is working to ensure that schools comply with the Free SHS policy.
Iddrisu's statement specifically addressed feeding, not the broader question of admission and prospectus-related costs. It is unclear whether the government intends to take additional steps to shield parents from these extra charges or if the "adequate provisions" extend beyond the school kitchen. The minister's assurance aims to alleviate concerns over feeding, a significant line item in running a boarding school.
The feeding assurance also comes against the backdrop of continuing problems with the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS). Over 200 parents in Kumasi faced placement errors that kept their children locked out of school, even as the term began. This issue adds to the pressure on families and schools, highlighting the need for a smooth and efficient placement system.
For many Ghanaian households, the start of the SHS term is already a financial strain, even under a policy meant to make secondary education free. Feeding is a significant cost, and any lapse can mean hungry students or schools sending children home. The Gusheigu case and the GES prospectus probe suggest that food is not the only cost families are being asked to bear.
The Ministry of Education's plans to monitor whether feeding stays uninterrupted through the term remain unclear. Parents affected by CSSPS placement errors in Kumasi are still waiting for their cases to be resolved. The GES investigation into prospectus sales is ongoing, with no timeline specified for its completion. The government faces challenges in ensuring a smooth and equitable education system.
Key points
- The Ghanaian government has made provisions for uninterrupted feeding in senior high schools.
- Extra costs associated with senior high school admission and prospectus items remain a challenge for families.
- The Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) continues to experience problems, affecting student placement.
