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The Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Dakoa Newman, has announced that the Ghana School Feeding Programme (GSFP) will transition from a manual system to a fully digital information management system.
The change, aimed at enhancing efficiency and transparency, will be implemented starting 2024 to 2025 academic year.
Speaking at a press briefing in Accra, yesterday, she said the new system, would manage various aspects of the programme, including caterer selection, data collection, and payments, all of which would now be processed online.
“From now on, the GSFP will no longer run on a manual system. Everything will be managed online, including the KTRA selection module, data collection, and payments,” she stated.
The minister further explained that the first module of the new system would be the online caterer selection process, which would open the application process to prospective caterers across the country.
Ms Newman added that to apply, candidates must create an online profile and pay a fee of GH¢200.
Applicants, she said would be required to provide proof of their ability to pre-finance the programme, with a minimum of GH¢5,000 in their account, alongside other business-related permits and a health certificate.
She emphasised that the transition to an online system was a critical step towards reducing inefficiencies and eliminating fraudulent practices, such as duplicate contracts.
A pilot phase she indicated, would be conducted in two constituencies, New Juabeng South and Krachi East, before the nationwide rollout. The full implementation is expected to be completed before the 2024-2025 academic year.
“This new system will streamline processes, improve transparency, and make the program more efficient for everyone involved, from the ministry to the caterers,” she added.
In addition to the GSFP update, the minister provided an eagerly anticipated update on the Affirmative Action and Gender Equity Act. After years of deliberation, the bill was passed by Parliament on July 30, 2024.
She expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the passage of the Affirmative Action Gender Equity Bill, particularly the male Members of Parliament, who played a significant role in its approval, making it Affirmative Action Gender Equity Act of 2024.
The minister who is also the Member of Parliament for Okaikwei South Constituency, clarified that the Act has not yet been signed by the President, as it was still undergoing final legislative revisions.
She said it mandates a progressive increase in the representation of women in decision-making positions, starting with a minimum of 30 per cent by 2024-2026 and reaching 50 per cent by 2029-2030.
The minister emphasised that the Act is designed to ensure qualified women are placed in these roles, countering concerns about tokenism.
“This Act is not about placing unqualified women in positions. It is about recognising and empowering the capable women of Ghana,” Madam Newman assured.
She reiterated government’s commitment to promoting gender equity and improving the efficiency of public programmes like the GSFP.
BY STEPHANIE BIRIKORANG
