CHASS informs the Education Minister food quality in SHSs improved after headteachers took over the responsibility of procuring food.
Minister Iddrisu had suggested that the system should be reconsidered due to concerns about food quality and distribution delays. However, CHASS National Secretary Primus Baro pushed back against these claims, asserting that food quality has significantly improved since headteachers began procuring food directly.
Baro expressed surprise at the Minister's criticisms, pointing out that no formal complaints about food quality had been received from students or parents. Instead, feedback has generally indicated improvements in the quality and timeliness of school meals.
He attributed these improvements to the decentralized approach, which allows school heads to purchase food locally, thereby ensuring that meals are fresher and more tailored to the needs of their students.
While acknowledging that, like any system, there could be isolated incidents of concern, Baro emphasized that the current system has led to faster delivery and better-quality food compared to the previous centralized system.
He noted that the centralized approach was plagued by delays in supply and inconsistent quality, which often led to dissatisfaction among students and parents.
In contrast, the decentralized system has enabled schools to respond more quickly to the needs of their students, resulting in improved meal quality and increased student satisfaction.
CHASS remains open to the government's decisions and is willing to work collaboratively to address any challenges that may arise. However, Baro stressed that any potential reversion to the centralized system must address critical issues like timely food delivery and proper coordination.
He emphasized the need for constructive dialogue and problem-solving, away from the media spotlight, to avoid creating a misleading narrative based on isolated incidents.
In addition to food quality, Baro touched on the issue of funding, acknowledging that there had been delays in the disbursement of funds due to administrative changes. However, he reassured that funds have now been released, even though some arrears remain unpaid.
CHASS remains committed to working with the government to find effective solutions that prioritize the welfare of students and ensure the smooth operation of the school feeding program.
Ultimately, CHASS stands by the decentralized food procurement system, citing its benefits in improving food quality and timeliness.
The association emphasizes the importance of collaboration and constructive dialogue in addressing concerns and finding solutions that work for all stakeholders.
By working together, CHASS and the government can ensure that Senior High School students receive the quality meals they deserve, supporting their health, well-being, and academic success.
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