Accra: The National Association of Institutional Suppliers (NAIS) has announced its intention to move forward with a planned picket at the Ministry of Education on Thursday, 11 June, 2026. This decision comes despite renewed assurances from government officials that the outstanding payments owed to its members under the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) programme are currently being processed.
According to Ghana Web, the association expressed frustration on June 11, 2026, stating that despite these fresh assurances from officials at the Free SHS Secretariat, many suppliers continue to struggle with the financial hardship caused by the prolonged delays in payment. NAIS is seeking the settlement of nearly GHC50 million owed for the supply of school uniforms, house dresses, and other school clothing to public senior high schools nationwide.
The decision to proceed with the June 11 demonstration was made following a meeting between the association and officials of the Free SHS Secretariat on Wednesday, June 10, 2026. Suppliers left the meeting without a clear timeline for payment, increasing concerns among members who have grown weary after waiting for nearly two years.
NAIS President Emmanuel Ayivor voiced the association's frustration, stating, "We have heard these assurances before, but our members are still waiting to be paid." Some suppliers have reported that the unpaid debts have disrupted their operations, impacted their workers, and made it challenging to continue fulfilling contracts under the government programme.
The association hopes the planned picket will highlight the difficulties facing suppliers and apply pressure on authorities to expedite the release of the outstanding funds.