School feeding irregularities: State Minister orders swift probe, stern action
Following the minister's instruction, the ministry directed the Director General (DG) of the Primary Education to conduct a swift investigation into the allegations, take action against those responsible in accordance with the law and submit the investigation report to the ministry without any delay.
State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj today (7 July) directed the authorities concerned to investigate an allegation of irregularities in the School Feeding Programme and take stern action against those found responsible.
The directive came after a national daily published a report alleging irregularities in the programme. Taking the matter seriously, the state minister ordered an immediate investigation, according to a press release issued by the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education.
Following the minister's instruction, the ministry directed the Director General (DG) of the Primary Education to conduct a swift investigation into the allegations, take action against those responsible in accordance with the law and submit the investigation report to the ministry without any delay.
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"The government will not tolerate any form of irregularities, negligence or corruption involving the food allocated for the school children," he said. "If the allegations are proven true, strict legal action will be taken against the individuals, institutions or contractors concerned. The government remains committed to ensuring that the students receive safe and quality food in the prescribed quantity."
The state minister also said that several measures have already been introduced to ensure transparency and accountability in the programme. These include regular monitoring by five-member guardian committees comprising parents, surprise inspections, immediate investigations upon receiving complaints and prompt action against those involved in any irregularities.
The ministry release said that the government has attached highest priority to maintaining the quality and effectiveness of the programme, which is being implemented to improve the children's nutrition and ensure regular school attendance.
It added that any allegation of irregularity or corruption would continue to be investigated promptly, with exemplary action taken against those found guilty.
