In recent weeks, serious allegations have emerged about the quality of food distributed to senior high schools in Ghana, particularly claims that expired food products may have reached students.
These allegations, voiced by Samuel Okudzedto Ablakwa have drawn significant attention and concern from both the public and the government.
The Ministry of Education, represented by its spokesperson Kwasi Koranteng, vows that the Ministry of Education is determined to bring the culprits to book through investigation.
Koranteng highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring student health and safety while clarifying its role and the roles of relevant agencies in food distribution.
Taking Allegations Seriously
Kwasi Koranteng emphasized that the Ministry does not take these allegations lightly, recognizing them as an opportunity to improve its operations.
“Of course, in the face value, I must admit that there’s positive feedback for the Ministry of Education, in terms of how we can be able to use this feedback to be able to improve our services as so far as education is concerned.”
Kwasi Koranteng Spokesperson of Ministry of Education
Koranteng acknowledged the urgency of addressing such allegations.
He emphasized that the Ministry views them not merely as complaints but as constructive feedback that could strengthen the education sector’s operations and safeguards.
The Ministry’s Investigation Process
The Ministry of Education’s immediate response has been to launch an investigation into the claims.
Koranteng clarified that while the Ministry oversees education, food distribution falls under separate agencies.
“It is important to understand that the ministry by itself does not engage in food distribution and supply. The agencies responsible for these activities are the National Food and Buffer Stock Company and the Ghana Commodity Exchange.”
Kwasi Koranteng Spokesperson of Ministry of Education
In light of this structure, the Ministry has reached out to the relevant agencies involved in food distribution to examine the issues raised by Hon. Ablakwa, According to Koranteng;
“We have reached out to these agencies that are responsible for the supply and distribution of food to senior high schools, particularly with regards to Buffer Stock, and we are jointly looking into the concerns or the matters that have been raised.”
Kwasi Koranteng Spokesperson of Ministry of Education
Coordination with State Institutions
Koranteng emphasized the importance of a coordinated approach to the investigation.
“We also even call on state institutions, particularly the Ghana Police Service and all other relevant institutions, to also commence investigations so that it does not necessarily become a one-party investigation affair.”
Kwasi Koranteng Spokesperson of Ministry of Education
This call for a collaborative approach highlights the Ministry’s commitment to objectivity and thoroughness in the face of these allegations.
Focus on Student Safety
Throughout his statement, Koranteng assured the public that student safety is paramount in the Ministry’s priorities.
He emphasized that the Ministry is dedicated to upholding the well-being of all students under its care, regardless of the educational institution, Koranteng reaffirmed;
“We assure parents, guardians, and the general public that the ministry remains committed to the health and safety of our students, those under our care irrespective of where they find themselves, whether they [are] in junior high school, the business school, or senior high schools.”
Kwasi Koranteng Spokesperson of Ministry of Education
This commitment to student welfare underscores the Ministry’s responsiveness to public concern and its resolve to address any potential risks in the education system.
Accountability and Transparency
In addressing specific concerns about the suppliers allegedly involved, Koranteng explained that the Ministry had contacted Buffer Stock and the Ghana Commodity Exchange, which handles food distribution logistics, as part of its initial investigation.
Koranteng acknowledged that should the investigation find the allegations credible; the Ministry would pursue all legal avenues to hold those involved accountable.
“At no point will the Ministry of Education countenance on some of these unscrupulous activities. No matter who is involved or who is behind [them], we are very much convinced that, at the end of the investigation, we should be able to get to the bottom of this.”
Kwasi Koranteng Spokesperson of Ministry of Education
This statement reflects the Ministry’s commitment to rooting out any misconduct that may harm students or violate regulatory standards.
The Role of Lament’s Africa Investment Limited
During the statement, a question arose regarding Lament’s Africa Investment Limited, one of the companies allegedly implicated in the distribution of expired food.
Koranteng responded by reiterating that the Ministry is not directly involved with suppliers but emphasized that they have engaged the relevant agencies to examine all suppliers, including Lament’s Africa Investment.
Koranteng’s answer reassured the public that the Ministry is addressing the matter with urgency and that all responsible parties are being held to account.
Commitment to Due Process and Legal Action
As the investigation continues, the Ministry remains resolute in its objective to uphold the law.
“Assuming the concerns or the allegations that have been raised are valid, then it’s purely a criminal matter. We’re very certain that we’ll collaborate with the Ghana Police Service to be able to make sure that we bring the perpetrators to book and all of them also face the full rigors of the law.”
Kwasi Koranteng Spokesperson of Ministry of Education
Kwasi Koranteng’s remarks on behalf of the Ministry of Education demonstrate a clear commitment to transparency, student safety, and due process.
The Ministry’s proactive response, from reaching out to food distribution agencies to collaborating with law enforcement, underscores its dedication to ensuring that the welfare of students is upheld and that any misconduct is thoroughly addressed.
With public concerns now at the forefront, the Ministry of Education remains focused on ensuring accountability and upholding trust within the educational system.
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