Free SHS suppliers picket at Education Ministry over GH¢50m debt

The National Association of Institutional Suppliers (NAIS) says it will proceed with a planned picket at the Ministry of Education on Thursday, 11 June, 2026, despite renewed assurances from government officials that outstanding payments owed to its members under the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) programme are being processed.

According to a report by asaaseradio.com, on June 11, 2026, the association says that despite fresh assurances from officials at the Free SHS Secretariat that payments are being processed, many suppliers are still struggling under the weight of debts and financial hardship caused by the prolonged delays.

NAIS is demanding the payment of nearly GHC50 million owed for the supply of school uniforms, house dresses and other school clothing to public senior high schools across the country.

The decision to proceed with Thursday’s June 11, 2026, demonstration was taken after a meeting between the association and officials of the Free SHS Secretariat on Wednesday, June 10 2026.

According to the suppliers, the meeting ended without any clear timeline for payment, deepening fears among members who say they have exhausted their patience after waiting for nearly two years.

“We have heard these assurances before, but our members are still waiting to be paid,” NAIS President Emmanuel Ayivor said.

Some suppliers say the unpaid debts have disrupted their businesses, affected workers and made it difficult to continue operations after honouring contracts awarded under the government programme.

The association believes the planned picket will draw attention to the challenges confronting suppliers and pile pressure on authorities to immediately release the outstanding funds.

NA/VPO