President John Dramani Mahama has called on the Chief of Staff to collaborate with the Ghana Education Service (GES) in tackling the worsening food crisis in Senior High Schools (SHSs). He emphasized the urgency of allocating food supplies from the Tema warehouses to ensure that students are adequately fed.
The Feeding Challenge
SHSs across the country are grappling with severe shortages of essential food items, disrupting the daily operations of schools and placing undue stress on students and staff. The crisis has been attributed to delayed funding, poor planning, and mismanagement of food supplies.
Mahama’s Directive
Mahama stressed the importance of swift intervention, stating:
“I urge the Chief of Staff to work with the GES to allocate food from the Tema warehouses to address the feeding challenges in our Senior High Schools.”
He further underscored that students’ welfare should be prioritized to avoid compromising academic performance and mental well-being.
Proposed Solutions
- Utilizing Existing Resources:
- Mobilize food stocks from government reserves, such as the Tema warehouses.
- Strengthening Logistics:
- Establish efficient distribution channels to prevent future shortages.
- Timely Funding:
- Ensure prompt disbursement of funds for school feeding programs.
- Accountability Measures:
- Monitor the use of allocated food supplies to avoid mismanagement.
Public Reactions
Parents, teachers, and civil society groups have welcomed Mahama’s call, emphasizing the need for long-term solutions to Ghana’s school feeding crisis. They have urged the government to implement measures that guarantee food security in SHSs nationwide.
Conclusion
Addressing the feeding challenges in SHSs is not just a matter of logistics but a critical step towards safeguarding the future of Ghana’s youth. Mahama’s proactive stance reflects his commitment to education and the well-being of students, highlighting the need for collective action to resolve this pressing issue.
