The Minority in Parliament has raised serious concerns over the lack of response from key education sector stakeholders, including teacher unions and the Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS), regarding the alarming allegations of repackaged expired rice being distributed to Senior High Schools (SHSs).
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, has accused Lamens Investment Africa Limited of collaborating with the National Food Buffer Stock Company to supply over 22,000 bags of expired rice to SHSs in February 2024.
Ablakwa, speaking to journalists, demanded immediate action from the relevant authorities to address the matter, which he described as an urgent issue that directly impacts the health and well-being of students.
“Students across the country deserve better. Allegations of expired rice being fed to our future leaders are not only scandalous but pose a significant health risk,” said Ablakwa.
He expressed disappointment that despite the seriousness of the allegations, there has been little response from teacher unions and CHASS, organizations that are supposed to safeguard the welfare of students.
The Minority has echoed calls for a thorough investigation into the matter, with an emphasis on accountability at all levels.
They are urging the government and relevant agencies to take swift action, ensuring that such incidents are thoroughly examined and measures put in place to prevent any recurrence.
“It is unacceptable that this issue has not been addressed with the urgency it demands.
We owe it to our children and the future of this nation to ensure that the food they receive in schools is safe and nutritious,” said a statement from the Minority.
The incident has sparked widespread public concern, with many questioning the effectiveness of the systems in place to monitor and ensure the quality of food supplied to schools.
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Story by: Osei Akoto (Teacher Kojo) #Ahotoronline.com/oseiakotor1@gmail.com
