The Ranking Member for the Committee on Education, Peter Nortsu-Kotoe, has raised concerns over the government's inability to settle debts owed by the Free SHS Secretariat to companies and institutions in relation to the Free Senior High Schools.

According to Peter Nortsu-Kotoe, as reported by starrfm.com.gh, the government has only paid 10% of the total amount owed to suppliers for the 1 student 1 tablet initiative out of a total of about six billion Ghana Cedis.

The Member of Parliament for Akatsi North further asserted that the government's inability to pay the West African Examination Council (WAEC) could jeopardize the upcoming WASSCE.

“As we speak now, the financial burden is just too much and going through the roof. From where I sit, I can say information available to me indicates that over six billion is being owed to companies, individuals, and organizations in relation to Free Senior High Schools,” starrfm.com.gh quoted him.

Peter Nortsu-Kotoe stated that suppliers to the Free SHS Secretariat, including those providing palm oil and food items, are facing significant delays in payment.

Some suppliers are reported to have outstanding payments dating back as far as a year ago.

“Those who supplied school uniforms two years ago, the government owes them. Those who supply food items, even palm oil a year ago, the secretariat still owes, and many other things.

“Putting all these together, it’s also about GH¢300 million. So, this six billion Ghana Cedis, which is now a debt on the neck of Free Senior High School Secretariat, must be settled.”

MAG/OGB