CHASS urges gov’t to release outstanding funds; warns against delayed school reopening

The Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) has issued an urgent appeal to the Ministry of Education, demanding the release of outstanding funds to schools across the country.

In a letter addressed to the Education Minister and copied to the Chief of Staff at the Jubilee House and all teacher unions, CHASS highlighted ongoing financial difficulties that threaten the reopening of schools in January 2025.

CHASS referenced previous correspondences dated August 12 and September 20, 2024, which detailed the fiscal strain on schools. The letter also recalled assurances from the minister during a Zoom meeting on December 18, 2024, in which he pledged to expedite the release of funds to ensure smooth school operations.

Despite a recent partial disbursement of funds, CHASS revealed that several critical needs remain unmet.

Among the pressing concerns outlined in the letter were unpaid recurrent funds, unsettled arrears for perishable items, and the exclusion of single-track and day schools from the recent financial allocations. Additionally, schools are grappling with unpaid transportation costs for food distribution and mounting utility bills.

CHASS emphasised that the lack of funds could severely hinder the reopening of schools scheduled for January 3, 2025.

“Without these resources, school heads will face insurmountable challenges in managing daily operations, providing quality education, and ensuring the well-being of students,” the letter stated.

The association formally notified the ministry that failure to release the outstanding monies could lead to a recommendation to postpone the resumption of the academic calendar.

“Unless all outstanding monies are released before January 3, 2025, we will advise against the reopening of schools,” CHASS warned.

CHASS called on the Ghana Education Service to expedite the disbursement of funds for recurrent expenditure, including perishable items in arrears, transportation, and utility bills.