President John Dramani Mahama’s administration continues to garner positive feedback regarding the implementation and management of the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) programme, particularly concerning the quality and availability of food provided to students. The latest wave of praise comes from an unexpected but crucial source: the caterers who work tirelessly to feed these students every day.
A viral video featuring the dedicated catering team at Prempeh College, a highly regarded second-cycle institution in the Ashanti Region, has surfaced online, showcasing their genuine appreciation for the positive changes they’ve experienced under the current administration. The video paints a picture of reduced burdens and improved food quality, directly impacting their workload and the well-being of the students they serve.
Speaking candidly in the Twi dialect, one of the caterers in the video detailed the demanding nature of their job. “We come to start the fire as early as 4:00 a.m. Sometimes, if certain things are unavailable, we come at 3:00 a.m. to begin cooking. It’s very tiring, so this support has really reduced our burden,” she explained, highlighting the demanding hours and logistical challenges they previously faced.
The caterer’s remarks underscore the practical impact of the government’s efforts to streamline the Free SHS programme. By ensuring the consistent availability of quality ingredients and potentially improving logistical support, the administration has demonstrably eased the pressure on these essential workers. The video serves as a powerful testament to the importance of behind-the-scenes support in making the Free SHS programme a success.
Beyond simply easing their workload, the caterers also expressed satisfaction with the quality of the ingredients they are now receiving. The same caterer, commenting on the upcoming meal preparation, enthusiastically declared, “The dough is nice and very smooth, the children are really going to enjoy it. Mahama has done very well. He should continue to support us.”
This comment speaks volumes about the impact of improved food quality on the students themselves. The caterers, who directly witness the students’ reactions to their meals, are uniquely positioned to assess the positive impact of the changes. Their enthusiasm suggests that the government’s efforts are not just making their jobs easier, but also significantly improving the nutritional well-being and overall satisfaction of the students.
The overwhelming sentiment expressed by the caterers is one of gratitude. “We are grateful to the government. They have done very well. We praise them. . . . We, the caterers at Prempeh College, want to tell the government that they have done well,” the caterer emphatically stated. This direct and heartfelt commendation from those on the front lines of the Free SHS programme provides compelling evidence of the positive strides made under President Mahama’s leadership.
While challenges undoubtedly remain in ensuring the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of the Free SHS programme, the praise from the Prempeh College caterers represents a significant vote of confidence in the current administration’s commitment to improving the lives of Ghanaian students.
Their story highlights the importance of acknowledging the contributions of often-overlooked individuals who play a vital role in the success of this ambitious national initiative.
It also serves as a call for continued support and improvement to ensure that the Free SHS programme continues to deliver on its promise of accessible and quality education for all Ghanaian children.
Anthony Obeng Afrane
