Editorial
Girls must avoid gifts with strings attached
Dear Editor,
I read in your esteemed newspaper the lead story of last week, suggesting that men tend to abuse girls with the pretext of showing them love.
I find that quite intriguing because it portrays a society that is becoming unfair towards men.
In as much as there may be a few instances to buttress the call, it is also important for some of the institutions that conduct such research to delve deeper to arrive at a conclusion that presents a fair case.
I am in no way trying to justify these instances where men want to abuse women sexually because of an act of kindness. That surely defeats the reason for the gesture and expects to attract blessings from above.
In my view, some of our women are also the cause of some of these problems since they won’t accept no for a response in their demands.
There are a number of women who would first draw your attention to such escapades before laying bare their needs and wants, knowing that after such act, it would be difficult to say no.
So, in a case when such guys meet other girls or ladies in need, the first thing that comes to mind is the sensual reward that follows.
In this case, if the lady fails to ‘deliver’, then this guy would begin to feel the lady owes him something because she had failed to also reward his kindness.
This is a practice society must shun but in doing so, women must also be taught that it is not every man they go to for help. They must also question some of the gifts from people. Men must also learn to be responsible and treat women with the respect they deserve.
Reginald Boah,
New Town, 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