Accra, Ghana — Schools across the country are under increasing financial strain as the government has failed to release the Senior High School (SHS) feeding grant for five consecutive months, raising serious concerns among education stakeholders.
Since July 2025, funds intended to support SHS feeding programs have not been disbursed, creating a heavy burden on school administrations struggling to provide meals for students. As of 1st December 2025, the government owes the feeding grant for five months (1st July 2025 to 1st December 2025).
In addition, the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service directed SHSs in Ghana to procure their own food from 17th November 2025 to 19th December 2025, yet no funds have been provided to support this directive.
It is important to note that in July 2025, schools were asked to procure 100% of their feeding items, while in August, September, October, and up to 16th November, the government provided merchandise and domestic food items to support the feeding programs. However, schools still needed to buy other perishable items in addition.
“The current situation is very challenging, and many schools are finding it difficult to comply with this new directive,” a source said.
President Mahama, during the 65th Anniversary of Ghanasco, stated that there have been prompt payments of feeding grants to SHSs since it now has a funding source, the GETFund. However, the reality on the ground is completely different.
The feeding grant is a crucial support system, especially for students from low-income families. Without it, schools are forced to find alternative funding—a situation stakeholders describe as unsustainable.
The delay in releasing these funds, coupled with the new directive, has intensified hardships for school authorities. Observers warn it could lead to reduced feeding programs, negatively affecting student attendance, concentration, and overall academic performance.
Education authorities, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and the media are being called upon to step in and ensure students continue to receive adequate meals.
Several SHS heads confirmed the challenges, noting that some feeding programs have already been scaled down. “We are trying to stretch limited resources, but it is becoming increasingly difficult. Students come to school hungry, which affects their learning,” said one Principal of a TVET school.
The situation continues to place immense pressure on schools, with many struggling to maintain feeding programs and meet students’ basic needs without government support.
Education stakeholders are urging the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Finance to release the outstanding funds promptly, warning that prolonged delays could have serious financial and educational consequences.
As the new academic year progresses, the pressing question remains: how long will schools endure these financial challenges before the government fulfills its commitment to the SHS feeding grant and ensures students receive the support they need?
Recent SHS results show poor academic performance, and such financial challenges indirectly contribute to the worsening of student performance. To ensure quality education and improve educational delivery, the government of Ghana needs to pay attention to such basic human needs.
It is time that His Excellency President Mahama’s thoughts and views on prompt payment of funds reflect the reality on the ground.
