The Ghanaian community mourns the loss of a distinguished figure in the field of hospitality and education, as Mrs. Gertrude Quashigah, the National Coordinator of the School Feeding Programme, passed away on Sunday, November 12, 2023.
Born on February 1, 1960, in Dzelukope, Keta, in the Volta Region, Mrs. Quashigah was more than a leader; she was a trailblazer. Holding the position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Ambar Quality Foods Limited, she not only made significant contributions to the Ghanaian food industry but also left an indelible mark on the nation’s education landscape.
A graduate of Keta Secondary Senior High School, Mrs. Quashigah pursued further studies in her chosen field, setting the stage for a career that would see her become a prominent figure in both hospitality and education. Her journey included being the wife of the late Major Courage E. K Quashigah (Rtd), a former Minister in the erstwhile Kufuor administration.
Under Mrs. Quashigah’s visionary leadership, the Ghana School Feeding Programme achieved remarkable success in its mission to provide nutritious meals to children across the nation. The program, which aimed to enhance school enrollment, attendance, and retention, played a vital role in improving the overall health and well-being of students.
The late Mrs. Quashigah faced a challenging chapter in May 2021 when she was relieved of her position as the National Coordinator of the Ghana School Feeding Programme. The decision, communicated through a letter from the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection on May 18, 2021, did not provide a specific reason for her removal. However, President Nana Addo Dankwa-Akufo-Addo subsequently reversed the decision, reinstating Mrs. Quashigah to her role.
Beyond her administrative challenges, Mrs. Quashigah’s legacy is one of resilience, dedication, and impactful contributions to education and child welfare. Her untimely passing leaves a void in both the fields she passionately served.
As we reflect on the life of Mrs. Gertrude Quashigah, let us remember her not only for the challenges she faced but for the positive impact she made in the lives of countless Ghanaian children through her work with the School Feeding Programme. May her legacy continue to inspire future generations in the pursuit of education and the well-being of our nation’s youth.