Daily feeding grants for special needs students increased from 8cedis to Ghc15 – Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has announced a significant increase in daily feeding grants for students in public special schools, reflecting the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of learners with disabilities.

Delivering the 2026 State of the Nation Address in Parliament, Mahama said, “Government has increased the daily feeding grants for students in public special schools, from 8 cedis per day to 15 cedis per day. This significant increase reflects our resolve to address the unique nutritional and health needs of learners with disabilities.”

The increase comes at the beginning of the 2026 academic year and is part of broader initiatives to enhance inclusive education in Ghana. The President also disclosed plans to construct a modern, state-of-the-art special needs school in Ho, Volta Region, and to rehabilitate and upgrade existing facilities in Akropong Akuapim.

“This investment is not just about food. It is about ensuring that learners with disabilities can thrive, grow, and fully participate in our education system,” Mahama said.

Education analysts note that adequate nutrition is critical for cognitive development and learning, especially for children with disabilities who may have specific dietary and health needs.

By addressing the nutritional gaps in special schools, the government hopes to improve attendance, reduce health-related absenteeism, and enhance academic outcomes for vulnerable learners.

In addition to feeding grants, Mahama highlighted several complementary measures targeting equity in education, including the provision of free sanitary products for schoolgirls and the expansion of senior high school infrastructure.

Education stakeholders welcomed the announcement, noting that such measures are vital to achieving inclusive education and ensuring no child is left behind.

“This step demonstrates that Ghana’s education policy is both humane and practical, directly addressing barriers that have historically limited access for learners with disabilities,” said a senior official from the Ministry of Education.

With these initiatives, the government aims to build a stronger foundation for inclusive education, ensuring that all children, regardless of their physical or cognitive challenges, can access quality learning environments.

Mahama emphasized that these efforts are part of a broader strategy to “invest in human capital and lay the foundation for a Ghana where every child can learn, grow, and succeed.”