School feeding caterers declare nationwide strike

The School Feeding Programme’s caterers have declared a nationwide strike due to the government’s failure to pay their arrears and increase the amount allocated per child. These caterers, who hail from various regions across the country, converged in Kumasi, the Ashanti regional capital, and expressed that stopping work is their only option.

During a press conference, the caterers highlighted their struggles due to the situation, which has caused them to face harsh economic times.

The leadership of the caterers is urging all members across the country to join the strike to prompt the government to address their concerns as soon as possible.

Gifty Asamoah, one of the caterers’ leaders, addressed the media, stating that they have exhausted all their funds and have yet to receive any response from the government regarding when their arrears will be paid. She also claimed that despite providing essential services in schools, school-feeding caterers are not given the same level of respect afforded to other professions.

“School feeding caterers are public servants, just like teachers, police officers, doctors, nurses, and other state employees who provide essential services. However, we are being discriminated against. If the government cannot withhold payment from teachers for even a single month, why are they doing the opposite when it comes to caterers? Our contract is binding, and our human rights should not be violated.”

The caterers have also warned that they will organize a nationwide demonstration if their arrears are not paid promptly.

SOURCE: Coverghana.com.gh