Parents should give their child enough food and money- CHASS Urges
The Eastern Regional Chairman of the Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS), Peter Attah Gyamfi, has issued a strong warning to parents, advising them to adequately prepare for their children’s return to school should the government fail to settle outstanding debts owed to senior high schools.
Speaking on Koforidua-based Bryt FM on Tuesday, Gyamfi, who also serves as the headmaster of Pentecost Senior High School, stated: “There are two options: either you give your child enough food and money, or he or she stays home.”
This statement comes as concerns continue to mount over the government’s failure to pay arrears related to perishables, recurrent fees, and food transportation costs, which have put immense financial pressure on the schools.
In a press release issued on December 31, 2024, CHASS urged the Ghana Education Service (GES) to reconsider the reopening date for senior high schools, originally set for January 3, 2025, until the debt crisis is resolved.
The statement highlighted that despite three previous appeals made by CHASS since August 2024, no responses have been received.
Nevertheless, the Ghana Education Service (GES) has reaffirmed that the reopening date for senior high schools will remain unchanged.
In a statement released on January 3, 2025, GES reminded students, staff, and parents that the academic calendar indicates senior high schools will resume on January 3, while primary and junior high schools are scheduled to reopen on January 8, 2025.
The statement further emphasised that GES is in ongoing discussions with the Ministry of Education to find a swift resolution to the financial concerns raised by CHASS.
The GES also urged all stakeholders to adhere to the reopening dates and make the necessary preparations for the academic term.