The National Association of Institutional Suppliers (NAIS) has picketed at the Ministry of Education over unpaid debts owed to its members under the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) programme.
According to the association, the government owes suppliers approximately GH¢50 million for uniforms, house dresses, and school clothing supplied to senior high schools since 2023.
National President of NAIS, Emmanuel Ayivor, said the delay in payment is placing significant financial strain on suppliers, many of whom relied on bank loans to fulfil government contracts. He added that some members are struggling to retain workers due to worsening cash flow challenges.
The association is also demanding the payment of two years’ arrears and has called on the government to urgently release all outstanding funds owed to its members.
NAIS said the picketing is intended to draw attention to the hardship facing suppliers and to press for immediate payment of arrears.
“Today we are here peacefully to register our displeasure to the ministry and the government that we are really stressed. Most of us are working with loans and currently the banks are taking over our properties because we are unable to pay.”
