GES backs probe into alleged Awaso SHS food supplies theft

The Ghana Education Service says it supports police investigations into allegations of food supplies theft involving staff of Awaso STEM Senior High School in the Western North Region.

In a statement dated December 26, 2025, the Service confirmed it had received reports of the arrest of the school’s matron, Benedicta Nyamadi, and a cook, Rachel Kyeremateng, over the alleged diversion of food meant for students.

“The Management of the Ghana Education Service (GES) has received reports regarding the arrest of the matron, Benedicta Nyamadi, and a cook, Rachel Kyeremateng, of Awaso STEM Senior High School in the Western North Region for the alleged theft of food supplies meant for students,” the statement said.

GES stressed that it does not tolerate misconduct within the Service, particularly actions that affect student welfare.

According to the statement, management “asserts unequivocally that it does not condone any form of misconduct, abuse of office, or acts that compromise the welfare, nutrition, and wellbeing of students under its care.”

The Service noted that the allegations, if proven, would amount to a serious breach of standards expected of its staff. “The alleged act, if proven, runs contrary to the ethical standards, professional conduct, and core values of the Service,” it stated.

GES also confirmed that the matter is now in the hands of law enforcement and said it will cooperate fully with the process. “The matter is currently under investigation by the Ghana Police Service. GES fully supports the ongoing investigations and will cooperate with all relevant state institutions to ensure that due process is followed,” the statement added.

Seeking to reassure parents and the public, management said systems exist to prevent and address such incidents.

“Management assures parents, guardians, and the general public that robust monitoring mechanisms are in place, and where lapses are identified, appropriate sanctions will be applied in accordance with the GES Code of Conduct and relevant laws of Ghana,” it said.

The Service further used the opportunity to remind staff of their responsibilities in handling public resources.

“We encourage all school staff to uphold integrity and a strong sense of responsibility in the management of public resources,” the statement noted.

The statement was signed by the Head of Public Relations at GES, Daniel Fenyi, and marked for immediate release.

GES said it will allow the investigations to take their full course and reiterated its commitment to protecting the welfare of students.

Earlier this week, two staff members of Sefwi Bekwai STEM Senior High School in Awaso, Western North Region were apprehended by police over the suspected theft of food items intended for students.

The arrested staff are Bennedicta Nyamadi, the school matron, and Rahel Kyeremateng, a cook.

Authorities confirmed the arrests occurred on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, following intelligence received by the Bibiani Anhwiaso Bekwai Municipal Chief Executive the previous night.