Editorial
Tame the final year students
Dear Editor,
I am writing to express my view on what has become some sort of ritual for some final year Senior High School students in parts of the country. Almost every year, we hear stories about how some of them riot for one reason or the other, especially when things do not go the way they expect.
The latest I heard early this month came from Tweneboa Koduah Senior High School in the Ashanti Region, where some students sitting the West Africa Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) went on a rampage and destroyed property in their dining hall to register their displeasure at what they described as ‘strict invigilation’ during the Integrated Science exam.
According to reports, the candidates claimed the questions were too difficult and they did not get any help from their teachers, hence the decision to vent their anger in the manner they did. Videos of the incident circulated on social media captured the students turning things upside down.
Following updates on the incident, I asked how some of these students learn to be so violent, choosing to express their grievance through the most unconventional or undiplomatic approach.
I am aware calm had since returned to the school but I believe there could be more to the rioting than the students’ cry over stern invigilation. But even before the WASSCE ends sometime soon, I fear other final students elsewhere may want to take the law into their own hands.
I wish to encourage school authorities not to create room for some of these misbehaviour from students. They should be on guard and handle any underlining issues there may be before it escalates into campus demonstrations or riot.
Prince Kumi,
Awoshie-Accra.
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
