The Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) has called on the Ghana Education Service (GES) to delay the scheduled January 3, 2024, reopening of senior high schools until the government clears outstanding debts for food supplies and operational costs.
In a strongly worded statement issued on December 31, 2024, CHASS expressed frustration over the government’s failure to address arrears despite three prior appeals dating back to August. These debts, they noted, cover critical items such as perishables, recurrent fees, and food transportation costs, leaving schools in a precarious financial position.
“This is now the fourth appeal to education authorities over the unpaid arrears, with previous letters sent in August, November, and December 2024,” the statement read.
National Secretary of CHASS, Baro Primus, announced measures to escalate the issue, directing all regional branches to inform parents about the potential delay through their respective parent associations. CHASS also warned that any school head who defies the directive and reopens on January 3 would face sanctions for undermining their unified stand.
The school heads emphasized that their demand was not just a protest but a necessity to ensure proper operations and the welfare of students.
The appeal underscores growing tension within the education sector, with the possibility of a delayed school reopening raising concerns among parents and stakeholders. As the standoff continues, all eyes are now on the government’s response to the mounting financial and operational crisis.
