Awaso STEM SHS Matron and Cook Arrested Over Alleged Theft of Food Items
Two staff members of Awaso STEM Senior High School in the Western North Region have been arrested by police for allegedly stealing food items meant for students of the school, in a development that has sparked concern among parents, education stakeholders, and the general public.
The suspects, identified as the school matron and a cook, were taken into custody following reports that food supplies provided for students under the government’s school feeding and boarding system were being unlawfully removed from the school premises.
Background to the Arrests
According to information available, the alleged theft was uncovered after school authorities detected discrepancies in food stock levels at the institution. Subsequent checks reportedly raised suspicions that some food items were being siphoned out instead of being used to prepare meals for students.
Security personnel were alerted, leading to investigations that resulted in the arrest of the two staff members. The food items allegedly involved include staple supplies typically used in school kitchens, though police are yet to publicly release a comprehensive list.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing to establish the full extent of the alleged activity and determine whether additional individuals may be involved.
Police Investigation Underway
Law enforcement officials have confirmed that the suspects are assisting with investigations. They stressed that the arrests are part of routine efforts to protect public resources and ensure accountability in public institutions.
The police emphasized that the suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of law. They are expected to be processed in accordance with legal procedures, after which they may be formally charged if sufficient evidence is established.
Legal analysts note that cases involving alleged theft of public resources, especially in educational institutions, are treated seriously due to their broader social impact.
Impact on Students and School Operations
The alleged incident has raised concerns about student welfare, particularly in boarding schools where students depend entirely on school-provided meals. Parents and guardians have expressed worry over how such actions could affect nutrition, health, and overall student well-being.
Education advocates argue that food supplies allocated to schools are often carefully budgeted and monitored, making any alleged diversion potentially harmful to students who rely on them daily.
School management has reportedly taken steps to ensure that meal preparation continues uninterrupted while investigations are ongoing.
Reactions from Education Stakeholders
The incident has reignited conversations about accountability and supervision in public senior high schools. Some stakeholders have called for stricter monitoring systems to track food supplies and prevent abuse.
Others have urged the Ghana Education Service (GES) and school authorities to strengthen internal controls, including regular audits and clear reporting mechanisms, to protect resources meant for students.
Civil society organizations focusing on education have also emphasized the need for ethical conduct among school staff, noting that trust is a critical component of effective school management.
Broader Context: Resource Management in Schools
Public senior high schools across Ghana receive government support to cater for feeding, accommodation, and other student needs. Proper management of these resources is essential to the success of policies aimed at improving access to education.
Incidents involving alleged misappropriation of school resources often attract public attention due to concerns about transparency and the welfare of students, particularly those from vulnerable backgrounds.
Education experts note that beyond punishment, such cases should prompt systemic reviews to prevent recurrence.
Next Steps in the Legal Process
Following the arrests, the suspects are expected to be presented before a court once investigations are concluded. Prosecutors will then determine whether formal charges should be filed based on the evidence gathered.
If charged, the case will proceed through the judicial system, where both prosecution and defence will have the opportunity to present their arguments.
The police have encouraged the public to avoid speculation and allow the legal process to take its course.
Developing Story
This is a developing story, and further details, including official charges, court proceedings, and responses from the Ghana Education Service, are expected in the coming days. My News Ghana will continue to follow the case and provide updates as verified information becomes available.
About the Author
