The Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) says it’s surprised and disappointed by recent comments made by the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, about the quality of food in senior high schools.
The Minister recently expressed concern over what he called “poor quality food” served to students. He also suggested that government may reverse its policy that allows school heads to buy food locally — a key promise in the NDC’s education policy aimed at improving the school feeding system.
However, CHASS disagrees with the Minister’s assessment. Its National Secretary, Primus Baro, told Citi News on May 5, 2025, that the Minister never raised these concerns in any formal meetings with CHASS or the Ghana Education Service (GES).
According to Baro, feedback from schools shows that food quality has actually improved since headteachers began handling procurement.
Baro explained that CHASS supported the current decentralized approach because the previous centralized system faced many issues, such as delays and poor-quality supplies. He said CHASS is open to returning to the centralized system — but only if the government ensures food will be delivered on time and in good condition.
He also advised that complaints about food should be dealt with privately through proper channels, rather than through the media, to avoid misleading the public.
On funding, Baro confirmed that while there have been some delays in disbursement due to administrative changes, funds have now been released, although some outstanding payments are still pending.
CHASS emphasized the need for cooperation and constructive dialogue to address any challenges in the school feeding programme.
