The National Association of Institutional Suppliers (NAIS) has called on the government to urgently pay arrears owed to its members for the 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 academic years. These debts, running into millions of Ghana cedis, have left suppliers in a financial bind, which could disrupt the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy.
Under the Free SHS initiative, students across Ghana are expected to purchase uniforms, house dresses, and other essential goods. The NAIS, which supplies these items to senior high schools, has been fulfilling its contractual obligations under the policy. However, despite their continuous efforts, they have not received payment for their services, causing significant financial strain on the suppliers.
In a statement jointly signed by NAIS President Emmanuel Ayivor and Secretary James Kudozia, the association expressed concern that the unpaid debts are not only affecting the suppliers but could also hinder the smooth implementation of the Free SHS policy. The delay in payment, they emphasized, is putting the members in a precarious situation, with some finding it difficult to sustain their operations, meet their own financial commitments, and continue supporting the government's educational initiatives.
The suppliers also pointed out that the situation is worsened by the significant increase in the cost of raw materials, further intensifying the financial pressure on their businesses. As a result, many of them are struggling to maintain their ability to provide the necessary goods for the Free SHS program.
The NAIS urged the government to take immediate action to settle the outstanding debts to avoid exacerbating the financial difficulties faced by the suppliers. Without timely payments, they warned that the suppliers would be unable to fulfill their obligations, potentially leading to a disruption in the supply of essential items to students.
The association underscored that its members are committed to continuing their support for the Free SHS policy but stressed that urgent steps must be taken to ensure that they can remain operational. Failure to address the outstanding payments could have serious consequences for both the suppliers and the success of the Free SHS initiative.
In conclusion, the NAIS called on the government to act swiftly to clear the arrears and ensure that suppliers can continue contributing to the country's education sector without facing further financial hardship.
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