The National Association of Institutional Suppliers (NAIS) says it will proceed with a planned picket at the Ministry of Education on Thursday, June 11, 2026, despite renewed assurances from government officials that outstanding payments owed to its members under the Free SHS programme are being processed.
According to the association, many suppliers remain under severe financial pressure due to delays in payments, despite repeated promises that the funds will be released.
NAIS is demanding the payment of nearly GH¢50 million owed to its members for the supply of school uniforms, house dresses, and other clothing items to public senior high schools across the country.
The decision to proceed with the demonstration follows a meeting between the association and officials of the Free SHS Secretariat on Wednesday, June 10, 2026.
According to the suppliers, the meeting ended without a clear timeline for the release of the funds, increasing frustration among members who say they have waited nearly two years for payment.
“We have heard these assurances before, but our members are still waiting to be paid,” NAIS President Emmanuel Ayivor said.
Some suppliers say the unpaid debts have disrupted their businesses, affected employees, and made it difficult to continue operations after fulfilling contracts awarded under the government’s flagship education programme.
The association believes the planned picket will draw public attention to the challenges facing suppliers and put pressure on authorities to settle the outstanding debt without further delay.
