The government has been urged to prioritize the modernization of kitchens in Senior High Schools across the country, as most existing facilities pose serious health, safety, and en
The report indicates that the government has been urged to prioritise the modernisation of kitchens in Senior High Schools across the country, as most existing facilities pose serious health, safety, and environmental risks
It further notes that the call was made during a ribbon-cutting and handover ceremony for a newly constructed kitchen donated to Kumasi Senior High School (KUHIS) in the Ashanti region.
The smoke-free kitchen facility, which cost $85,000, was fully funded and executed by the school’s alumni based in North America under the group ‘Mmeranteɛ North America’.
It is equipped with electronic commercial food-holding cabinets, a commercial tilting steam-jacketed kettle, and stainless steel utility trolleys, equipment designed to improve efficiency, hygiene, and safety in mass food preparation.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Prof. Chris Mensah-Bonsu, Coordinator of the Kitchen Project and Vice President of ‘Mmeranteɛ’ Global, stated that while the government has invested heavily in classroom blocks, dormitories, libraries, and inner roads infrastructure for second-cycle institutions, similar attention has not been given to school kitchens.
“Government’s effort to build modern kitchens with ultra-modern equipment has not been encouraging. A lot of kitchens in various SHSs are in a bad state. This is a threat to the safety of kitchen staff, students, and by extension, the national economy,” he stated.
A member of ‘Mmeranteɛ’ North America explained that many school cooks still rely on firewood, exposing them daily to smoke that causes respiratory and eye problems. He added that the heavy reliance on manual labor also increases the risk of food contamination.
“With modern cooking equipment, we can improve food safety, reduce workload, and protect the health of the people who feed our children every day,” he said.
Beyond health and safety, Prof. Mensah-Bonsu noted the environmental impact of outdated cooking methods.
“Providing schools with electronic commercial food holding cabinets and other modern equipment will reduce dependence on firewood. That means fewer trees cut down, and a real contribution to the fight against climate change,” he added.
He urged other alumni groups to emulate ‘Mmeranteɛ’ North America and partner with the government to roll out a national policy focused on upgrading SHS kitchens.
Also speaking at the ceremony, Larry Osei Koduah, Chairman of ‘Mmeranteɛ’ North America (MNA), urged the school authorities, the patron, and the cooking staff to take good care of the machines.
He stated the facility is intended to serve generations of KUHIS students.
Mr. Koduah emphasised that proper maintenance, strict hygiene standards, and responsible use were necessary to protect the investment and ensure student health.
