In a recent development that has sent ripples through the community, the Office of the Basic Education Commission (Obec) and the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) have launched a thorough investigation into the food quality at Rajaprajanugroh 47 School in Phetchaburi. This probe follows the widespread circulation of photos online, depicting meals that many have deemed substandard and potentially unsafe.
Acting Sub Lt Thanu Wongjinda, the secretary-general of Obec, announced on Friday that a fact-finding mission had been promptly initiated. The trigger for this investigation was a series of shocking images shared by the Facebook page “Watch Dog.” These images showcased the boarding school’s breakfast and lunch meals, which quickly garnered the attention and concern of the community.
One particular photo that drew significant criticism showed a rather disheartening breakfast consisting of plain rice and deep-fried cocktail-sized sausages. What was even more alarming was the revelation that some of these sausages were served with their plastic casing still intact, an oversight indicating they had been cooked while still packaged. Another concerning image depicted a noodle dish featuring reddish-pink pieces of pork, suggesting that the meat was undercooked and served to the students in this unsafe manner.
The release of these images on social media immediately sparked outrage and raised serious questions about the safety and quality of school meals. Parents and concerned citizens alike expressed their frustration, demanding accountability and immediate improvements.
In response, Acting Sub Lt Thanu explained that the Special Education Bureau, led by its director Phatriyawan Phannoi, had conducted an initial inspection at the school on September 25. Their findings revealed that the school had sourced both wrapped and unwrapped sausages. According to the school director, the early morning food preparation process posed challenges for the kitchen staff, leading to some sausages inadvertently being cooked with their plastic wrappings still on.
Regarding the undercooked pork, the school acknowledged a lapse in their food preparation protocols. They admitted there may have been some carelessness in ensuring the meat was thoroughly cooked before serving. Acknowledging the gravity of these issues, Acting Sub Lt Thanu emphasized that if Obec’s investigation confirms negligence on the part of the school, appropriate disciplinary actions would be taken in accordance with relevant rules and laws.
Meanwhile, Samnan Meesiri, director of the NACC’s provincial office in Phetchaburi, expressed that his office is collaborating closely with the Special Education Bureau to get to the bottom of this matter. He mentioned that the social media complaints might have been fueled by internal conflicts within the school itself.
In an effort to uncover any potential financial irregularities, the NACC has mandated a comprehensive review of the school’s budget disbursement documents. This is to ensure that all expenditures related to the provision of school meals are thoroughly accounted for and adhere to proper financial practices.
As the investigation unfolds, the community eagerly awaits the results, hoping for swift and decisive action to safeguard the well-being of students. This incident serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of vigilant oversight in school meal programs to ensure that every child receives nutritious, safe, and high-quality food during their education.
Stay tuned for more updates as Obec and NACC work diligently to resolve this pressing issue and restore confidence in the quality of school meals at Rajaprajanugroh 47 School.
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