Bursar of Ghanata SHS Arrested for Alleged Diversion of Student Food Supplies
The bursar of Ghanata Senior High School (SHS) in the Shai-Osudoku District of the Greater Accra Region, Lamisi Sarah, has been arrested over allegations that she diverted portions of food supplies intended for boarding students at the school.
The arrest was confirmed by the Member of Parliament for Shai-Osudoku and Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Linda Ocloo, who described the incident as a disturbing breach of trust with serious implications for student nutrition and welfare.
According to the Minister, her office received credible intelligence and complaints in recent weeks indicating that the bursar had been systematically siphoning off food items meant for the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) feeding programme. These supplies—primarily staple foods, proteins, and other provisions—are critical for ensuring students receive balanced and adequate meals.
Hon. Ocloo stated that the alleged diversion constituted “a serious breach of trust and public duty,” particularly given the vulnerability of boarding students who rely entirely on school-provided meals. She emphasized that such acts not only compromise the health and academic performance of learners but also erode public confidence in state institutions and government flagship programmes like Free SHS.
Upon receiving the reports, the Regional Minister promptly alerted the National Security apparatus in the constituency to conduct a discreet investigation. The probe reportedly uncovered sufficient evidence to justify the arrest of the bursar, who is now in custody assisting with further inquiries.
“The situation is disturbing, and we will not tolerate any form of misappropriation that directly affects the well-being of our students,” Hon. Ocloo said. “Accountability must be upheld, and anyone found culpable will face the full rigours of the law.”
The Regional Minister reaffirmed her unwavering commitment to protecting student welfare, safeguarding public resources, and maintaining the integrity of educational institutions across the Greater Accra Region. She vowed decisive action against all forms of corruption and mismanagement in schools under her oversight.
The arrest has reignited public concern over transparency and accountability in the implementation of the Free SHS feeding programme, which has faced periodic allegations of supply shortages, quality issues, and diversion at various schools nationwide. Authorities have urged school bursars, headteachers, and supply chain actors to exercise the highest standards of probity.
No formal charges have been publicly detailed yet, and investigations are ongoing. The Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council and the Ghana Education Service are expected to issue further statements as the matter progresses. Ghanata SHS, a public second-cycle institution, continues to operate amid efforts to ensure uninterrupted student feeding and academic activities.
