Education Minister Assures One-Week Timeline To Clear GH¢50m Free SHS Suppliers Debt

Minister of Education Haruna Idrisu has assured Members of the Association of Institutional Suppliers (NAIS), that the government will take action to settle unpaid balances under the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) program within a week.

Despite prior interactions with representatives of the Free SHS Secretariat regarding outstanding debts, the suppliers went forward with a picketing exercise at the Ministry of Education on Thursday.

The organization is requesting payment of almost GH¢50 million for supplies, like as uniforms, house dresses, and other necessities, that have been provided to public senior high schools since 2023.

In a meeting with the protesting vendors, Mr. Iddrisu acknowledged their worries and stated that their actions were warranted, citing government payment delays for completed work.

“You are free to lament that you are unhappy about the government not honouring its obligations,” he said.

The Minister gave the suppliers the assurance that their claims would be examined and handled quickly, suggesting that the government would give arrears settlement top priority.

Mr. Iddrisu added that supplies delivered in 2023 and 2024 will be covered by the outstanding obligations, pointing out that the overall exposure might be greater than first claimed.

Before payments are made, he suggested that the claims be audited and validated to verify delivery records and invoices.

In order to speed up the verification process, he also instructed supplier representatives to speak with high Ministry officials, such as the Chief Director and Director of Finance.

The minister urged everyone to remain composed and promised that the administration would try to resolve the matter within a week.

“I give you my word and assurance that within a week we should be able to honour it,” he said