The Northern Patriots, Research and Advocacy has expressed shock at reports that the government has withdrawn feeding grants to second cycle schools in the three northern regions. NOPRA President, Bismark Adongo Ayorogo in a statement claims that cheques deposited in the accounts of beneficiary schools last month have been cancelled. The group describes the development as very unfortunate and runs counter to President J.E.A. Mills’ pledge to release feeding grants to schools in the area in good time. The statement observed that the government’s action could feed into the perception that it is not committed to its rhetoric of bridging the development gap between the north and south. Mr Adongo said it has been a month since schools reopened and feeding grants were yet to be received fearing a repeat of last year’s situation when the academic calendar was disrupted because of delays in the releasing funds to the schools. The civil society organization is demanding an urgent explanation from the Ministry of Finance for the withdrawal of the cheques. Source: Joynews