Editorial
May the Stars bring laurels home
Dear Editor,
I am writing to add to the numerous congratulatory messages pouring in for the Ghana Black Stars, following their qualification to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
They deserve commendation just as they were chastised for the unimpressive show at the just ended Africa Cup of Nations. Their performance on Tuesday in Abuja was, indeed, an improvement on the effort put in during the first leg at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.
Although the Nigerians had the possession throughout the game, the determined Stars held on until the final whistle. In spite of the massive home support their opponents enjoyed, the technical bench rallied all their arsenals to ensure the team did not fail.
And, now that the bragging Nigeria is out of the way, lot more would be expected when the Thomas Partey-led squad arrives in Qatar later in November this year.
Critics say the victory was as a result of luck or divine intervention and I want the Stars to prove the naysayers wrong when they meet tougher opponents at the World Cup.
With a few months to the world showpiece, the sports ministry, team officials, and individual players must do what it takes to raise the flag of Ghana higher in Qatar.
While at it, I must say the post-match incidents in Abuja are condemnable. Football is not war therefore teams must learn to lose honourably. I am looking forward to the sanctions the Confederation of African Football (CAF) would impose on the Nigerian fans for their hostility towards the Ghanaian delegation.
Probably, the “giants of world football” may be on the way to hinder the progress of the Black Stars in Qatar but I am confident they can still defy the odds and bring laurels home this time.
Farouk Tindani,Cape Coast
Editorial
Concern over mentally ill persons roaming Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange
Dear Sir
I write to express my concern over the growing number of mentally ill individuals roaming the Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange in Accra.
This area, a vital transportation hub and commercial centre, has increasingly become home to several persons visibly suffering from mental health issues, often without adequate care or supervision.
This situation poses risks both to the affected individuals and the general public. Some of these individuals are exposed to traffic hazards, unsanitary conditions, and in some cases, hostile treatment from passersby.
There have also been reports of occasional erratic behaviour, which causes fear and discomfort among commuters and vendors.
Mental health is a public health issue, and these individuals deserve compassion, medical attention, and a safe environment.
I urge the Ministry of Health, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, and relevant NGOs to collaborate on a sustainable solution including mental health outreach programmes, rehabilitation, and safe housing.
Kwame Nkrumah Circle should be a symbol of progress, not a place where the vulnerable are left to struggle. Let us act with urgency and humanity.
From John Boateng
Kwame Nkrumah Circle
Editorial
Parents should encourage their wards writing BECE
Dear Editor,
AS the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) takes off across the country starting Wednesday, I write to encourage all candidates taking part in this important step in their academic journey.
Out of a total of 603,328 candidates taking the examination this year, 306,078 are females, whiles the rest 297,250 are males.
Over the years, the examination begins on Monday and ended on Friday but per the timetable, this year’s candidates started on Wednesday and will end next week.
The BECE is not just an exam, it is a milestone from one stage to another. It represents years of hardwork, dedication and the dreams of countless students who hope to continue their education and build a brighter future.
This is where the role of parents, teachers and society become beneficial. Let us offer not only academic support but emotional encouragement to them.
I also appeal to educational authorities to ensure fairness, proper supervision and transparency throughout the examination period.
The journey may be challenging, but with time, focus and discipline they can make it.
I wish to use this platform to wish all of them well.
Naa Koshie, Teshie
