Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Ghana’s Minister of Finance, announced an increase in the School Feeding Programme meal cost from GH¢1.50 to GH¢2 per child, representing a 33% increase. This adjustment aims to improve the nutritional value of meals provided to schoolchildren and is in response to rising inflation. In 2023, over 3.8 million children benefited from the programme, emphasizing its significance in education and public health.
The Ghanaian Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, announced an increase in the cost per meal for the School Feeding Programme, raising it from GH¢1.50 to GH¢2. This adjustment signifies a 33% hike in the feeding fee, a policy that was originally introduced by the government led by John Mahama.
During a discussion on X Space, facilitated by KalyJay and reported by GhanaWeb Business, Dr. Forson highlighted the inadequacy of the current feeding cost, stating, “Currently, the government of Ghana pays GH¢1.50 per child per day. Unfortunately, we all agree that this amount is too small and can’t even buy one egg.”
He indicated that the planned increase reflects an acknowledgement of inflation’s impact and aims to enhance the meals provided to children. The Minister expressed his belief, stating, “I think we intend to increase it to a minimum of GH¢2 per child, per day. I believe this will be a significant improvement from where we are.”
Initially set at GH¢1, the feeding cost was later adjusted to GH¢1.20 by the former administration. In 2023, the Ghana School Feeding Programme benefitted 3,801,491 children, emphasizing its role in improving school enrolment, nutrition, and preventing hunger among students.
The Minister of Finance is scheduled to present the 2025 budget to Parliament on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, which will outline further details regarding financial allocations to the School Feeding Programme and other initiatives.
The increase in the cost per meal under Ghana’s School Feeding Programme to GH¢2 aims to enhance nutritional support for schoolchildren. This adjustment, representing a 33% increase, addresses previous concerns about the inadequacy of funding. The forthcoming 2025 budget presentation will clarify further financial commitments.
Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com
