National Food Suppliers Association demands urgent payment for 2024 arrears

Haruna Iddrisu rejects Dr Bawumia's claims of Free SHS food shortages

The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has categorically dismissed claims made by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) regarding food shortages in the nation’s senior high schools. Addressing allegations recently put forward by the NPP’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the Minister asserted that the Free Senior High School (SHS) program remains adequately resourced. He emphasized that students are receiving their meals as scheduled and that the reported "no food" crisis is a misrepresentation of the current reality on the ground. To support the program's sustainability, Iddrisu highlighted the strategic funding mechanisms established under the administration of President John Mahama. He revealed that the government has committed a significant $300 million investment toward improving educational infrastructure across the country. This capital injection is intended to address the growing needs of the student population and ensure that the physical environment supports the ambitious goals of the free education policy. According to the Minister, these investments are proof of the government's long-term commitment to quality education. In response to the political discourse surrounding the program, the Minister urged the public and the media to verify the status of food supplies directly with parents and students. He argued that the lived experiences of those within the school system contradict the narrative being promoted by the opposition. Beyond the issues of food and infrastructure, Iddrisu also took the opportunity to address the ongoing teachers' strike. He assured the public that the government is actively working to resolve the industrial action, emphasizing that the welfare of educators remains a priority alongside student wellbeing. The dismissal of these claims marks a critical point in the ongoing debate over the management of Ghana's education sector. By highlighting both the immediate availability of food and the substantial infrastructure investments, the Ministry of Education aims to reinforce public confidence in the Free SHS initiative. As the administration continues to navigate challenges such as labor disputes and political scrutiny, the focus remains on maintaining the stability and effectiveness of the nation's educational framework under President Mahama’s leadership.