Ministry of Education Responds to Report on GH¢56 Million Payments for Unprovided Internet Services in Schools

The Ministry of Education has addressed a recent report by The Fourth Estate, which disclosed that it paid GH¢56 million to internet service provider Busy Internet, now Lifted Logistics Limited, despite failing to provide services to numerous schools nationwide.

The report highlighted prolonged lack of internet connectivity in many schools under the government's Wi-Fi for Schools Programme, severely affecting the study of ICT in institutions like Accra Academy, Labone SHS, and Bolgatanga SHS.

Despite reports of slow or non-existent internet, the Ministry clarified that after spending GH¢84 million on hardware, installation, and maintenance across 1,013 institutions, a recurring monthly cost was approved based on inflation and foreign exchange rates.

"Despite the approved monthly expenditure, the Ministry only pays for accessible internet services," the Ministry stated, emphasizing a pro-rata payment system that ensures no payment for service downtimes exceeding half a month.

The Ministry detailed measures including ICT coordinators, monitoring tools, and a Network Operating Room to oversee connectivity. They also mentioned a vetting committee to ensure payment accuracy, noting a significant reduction in payments after vetting invoices, such as in February 2024.

The Ministry indicated considering terminating aspects of the contract in schools facing satellite connectivity issues due to Lifted Logistics' failure to pay providers. They also refuted The Fourth Estate's claims about non-disclosure of payment breakdowns since 2020.

In contrast, Lifted Logistics' Business Lead asserted no billing for months without service, though discrepancies were found in schools invoiced despite lacking internet access.

Research by Africa Education Watch corroborated the lack of internet in many schools under the project. Despite this, the Ministry reassured their commitment to ensuring value for money and urged the public to disregard misconceptions from the report.

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