Government to Release Emergency Funds to Feed Senior High Students for 31 Days

The General Secretary of the Conference of Heads of Assisted Senior High Schools (CHASS), Primus Baro, has announced that the government will release emergency funds by Friday, January 17, to feed senior high school students for 31 days.

This intervention comes in response to a nationwide food shortage affecting senior high schools.

According to Mr. Baro, the directive was issued by President John Mahama as a short-term measure while efforts are underway to resolve the crisis.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Mr. Baro explained, “It was for 31 days as instructed by the president. Once the immediate issue is addressed, there will be clearer direction for sustainable solutions.”

In addition to the funds, government officials have commenced efforts to deliver food supplies directly to the affected schools.

President Mahama had previously ordered the redirection of food supplies initially meant for drought victims in the northern region to the schools. These items, stored at warehouses in Tema Port, include only two of the 18 essential food items required, according to Mr. Baro.

“While the remaining supplies are being transported, the Chief of Staff and the President decided to provide emergency funds for schools to procure food locally and address the situation immediately,” he noted.

The Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, has pledged broader consultations with education stakeholders to develop a permanent solution to the recurring challenges in senior high schools.

“There was a clear indication that a wider executive education forum will be held to address these issues.

Meanwhile, we hope the government provides interim directions during this one-month relief period. Feeding and funding for schools cannot be delayed further,” Mr. Baro emphasised.

The government has assured CHASS that the funds and food supplies will reach schools by the end of the week, alleviating the immediate crisis while planning long-term interventions.