Child Rights International, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), has expressed concerns regarding the proposal that parents should take on the responsibility of feeding their children under the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy. The organisation has highlighted the potential burden this could place on parents, especially in the current economic climate.
The Conference of Heads of Assisted Senior High Schools (CHASS) recently raised issues about the insufficient food supplies in schools after the reopening on 3rd January. In response to these concerns, Bright Appiah, the Executive Director of Child Rights International, issued a statement on 11th January. He emphasized that shifting the cost of feeding to parents would go against the original purpose of the Free SHS policy.
Appiah stated that the Free SHS programme was established to ensure equal access to secondary education by eliminating financial barriers and promoting inclusivity. Any attempt to transfer responsibilities, such as feeding, to parents would undermine the core principles of the policy and create inequalities it was meant to address.
He further explained that when logistical challenges arise in the implementation of the Free SHS programme, it is crucial for stakeholders to engage directly with the government to secure the necessary resources. The responsibility for addressing such challenges lies with the implementing authorities, and shifting this burden to parents would not align with the policy’s framework.
Appiah stressed the importance of active stakeholder engagement in any amendments to the policy to maintain its integrity. He highlighted that protecting a social policy like Free SHS is a collective responsibility of all stakeholders and beneficiaries. It is essential to handle challenges with care and consideration for the well-being of students.
Child Rights International reiterated the significance of prioritizing the interests and welfare of students in the implementation of the Free SHS policy. They called for a collaborative approach to address any issues that may arise, ensuring that the original goals of the policy are upheld.
In conclusion, Child Rights International’s concerns shed light on the potential impact of shifting feeding responsibilities to parents under the Free SHS policy. It is essential for all stakeholders to work together to safeguard the integrity of the policy and ensure that students’ needs are met effectively.
