The Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) has warned the government that it may advise against the reopening of schools in January 2025 if outstanding debts are not settled.

In a statement released on December 21, CHASS expressed concern over the government’s failure to fully address the financial needs of senior high schools across the country. The debts include arrears for essential services such as food, transportation, utilities, and operational expenses for both day and boarding schools.

While CHASS acknowledged recent disbursements of funds to schools, the association stated that these have not resolved the institutions’ critical financial challenges. “This situation poses a serious threat to the smooth operation of schools and could negatively impact students’ well-being,” the statement read.

The organization called on the government to prioritize the payment of these outstanding debts to ensure the successful and uninterrupted start of the 2025 academic year. CHASS emphasized that the continued operation of schools and the welfare of students depend on the timely release of these funds.

Source:TheDotNews