Cape Coast, May 23, GNA - The NEPAD School Feeding Programme, is to take off in the Cape Coast municipality next month on pilot basis, with five schools.

The schools selected for the pilot project are; Akotokyir Anglican, Abura Ahmaddiya A & B, Antem and Nyinasin M/A primary schools. The programme is to be implemented in phases, starting with the Abura- Ahmaddiya primary A&B schools, which have a population of more than 600 pupils.

To this end, a 12-member committee to oversee the programme, made up of some selected basic school heads, representatives of the municipal assembly, health, education, Ministry of Food and Agriculture, an opinion leader and a traditional ruler was on Monday inaugurated. It has among others, been charged with the responsibility of opening a bank account for the programme, ensure the judicious use of items provided as well as the smooth implementation of the programme. Inaugurating it, the Central Regional Minister designate, Nana Ato Arthur, said he was delighted that the programme had also taken off in the municipality, because when it was introduced, some people were skeptical about its success.

He warned that any school head or group of persons caught diverting items meant for the programme would be severely dealt with. He said this year about 1,000 basic schools throughout the country were expected to benefit from the programme, which aimed at ensuring retained school attendance, particularly in deprived areas. Nana Arthur, who is also the acting Municipal Chief Executive, therefore, urged the members of the committee to bring their expertise to bear on the programme and to work as a team to ensure its success, taking cognance of the socio-economic situation in the region. Mr Guy Sillo, Municipal Coordinating Director, said the district assemblies would construct storage facilities, kitchens and canteens for the various schools to help in the smooth take off of the programme.