The Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) has called on the Ministry of Education to postpone the scheduled reopening of schools on January 3, 2025, until all outstanding financial obligations to schools and suppliers are fully settled.
This urgent plea stems from the persistent financial challenges that continue to hinder the smooth operation of secondary schools nationwide.
In a formal letter addressed to the Ministry, CHASS outlined the gravity of the financial difficulties caused by these outstanding arrears. The association emphasized that unless these issues are resolved promptly, the reopening of schools could face significant disruptions, ultimately impacting the quality of education delivered to students.
The letter referred to earlier correspondences sent to the Ministry on August 12, 2024, and September 20, 2024, highlighting repeated efforts to seek a resolution. Additionally, it cited assurances given by the Minister of Education during a Zoom meeting held on December 18, 2024. During this meeting, the Minister had committed to ensuring the release of funds required for the effective operation of schools.
Despite these assurances, CHASS expressed deep disappointment over the inadequacy of recent fund disbursements. According to the association, these disbursements have failed to address several pressing issues, including:
Unpaid recurrent funds owed to schools.
Arrears for perishable items, which are essential for student meals.
Exclusion of single-track and day schools from the recent funding allocation.
Lack of funds for transporting food supplies from distribution centers to schools.
Unpaid utility bills, threatening essential services such as water and electricity.
CHASS emphasized that these unresolved financial burdens are crippling schools’ ability to function effectively. The association warned that if funds are not released immediately, school heads will face insurmountable challenges in managing daily operations and ensuring the welfare of students.
“We believe these funds are critical for the successful reopening of schools. Without them, heads of schools will face overwhelming challenges in managing daily operations and ensuring the welfare of students,” the letter stated.
CHASS also highlighted the potential long-term consequences of the delay in addressing these issues. It warned that the ongoing financial strain on schools could lead to a deterioration in the quality of education provided to students. Furthermore, the lack of funds for essential services such as transportation and utilities could result in severe operational disruptions, leaving students and staff in precarious situations.
The association urged the Ministry to prioritize the immediate release of funds to settle all outstanding obligations. It stressed that this action is crucial to ensuring the smooth reopening of schools and maintaining the trust and morale of stakeholders, including students, parents, and teachers.
CHASS reiterated its commitment to supporting the Ministry in delivering quality education but maintained that this objective could only be achieved if the necessary resources are made available. It called on the Ministry to act swiftly and decisively to address these challenges before the January 3 reopening date.
As the clock ticks closer to the reopening date, CHASS’s plea serves as a stark reminder of the critical role financial stability plays in the effective functioning of the education sector. The association’s call for action underscores the urgency of resolving these challenges to avoid compromising the future of countless students across the country.
In its final appeal, CHASS stressed the need for collaboration and open communication between all stakeholders to navigate this pressing issue. It expressed hope that the Ministry would heed its call and take the necessary steps to ensure a smooth and successful reopening of schools in January 2025.
By addressing these financial challenges, CHASS believes the Ministry can restore confidence in the education system and reaffirm its commitment to providing quality education for all students. The association remains optimistic that with the timely resolution of these issues, schools can reopen as planned, equipped to deliver the standard of education that students deserve.
