The Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) has called on the Ghana Education Service (GES) and the Ministry of Education to reconsider reopening schools on January 3, 2025, due to ongoing financial constraints. This recommendation follows a series of unaddressed concerns raised by CHASS regarding the dire financial state of many secondary schools across the country.
Financial Challenges Highlighted by CHASS
CHASS raised its concerns in a letter dated December 20, 2024, addressed to the Ministry of Education. The association cautioned that failure to resolve the financial issues plaguing schools could jeopardize the smooth reopening of the academic calendar.
Key financial challenges cited by CHASS include:
- Unpaid arrears for perishables and recurrent fees.
- Transportation costs for food items delivered from regional distribution centres to schools.
CHASS has consistently communicated these issues to the Ministry of Education and the GES through formal letters dated August 12, November 13, and December 20, 2024. Despite these efforts, the government has yet to provide solutions, leaving schools in precarious financial positions.
Decision to Delay Reopening
CHASS has formally advised its members against reopening schools on January 3, citing the unresolved financial difficulties. The association emphasized that the reopening process could be severely disrupted unless the government acts promptly to address these concerns.
To communicate this decision effectively, CHASS plans to notify parents and guardians through regional branches and various school Parents Associations (PAs).
CHASS Leadership’s Warning and Reassurance
In their communication, CHASS leadership:
- Warned members that any deviation from the directive would be seen as a betrayal of the association’s collective efforts.
- Reassured schools that further updates would be provided as the situation evolves.
They expressed optimism that the financial issues could still be resolved, paving the way for the timely reopening of schools.
Call for Urgent Action
The association has reiterated its appeal to the Ministry of Education and the GES to prioritize the resolution of the financial constraints. CHASS emphasized that swift action is critical to ensuring the readiness of schools to welcome students back after the Christmas break.
The government’s response to these pressing matters will determine the way forward for the reopening of secondary schools across Ghana. For now, CHASS’s directive to postpone reopening highlights the seriousness of the financial challenges facing the education sector.