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Bnoskka to champion UNESCO Aschberg Programme in Ghana as National Expert
In a significant recognition of his expertise, Benjamin Oduro Arhin Jnr, aka Bnoskka, has been awarded a consultancy contract by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as the National Expert for the UNESCO Aschberg Program in Ghana.
This contract, which runs from October 1, 2023, to August 31, 2024, is a testament to Bnoskka’s extensive knowledge and experience in creative arts business and intellectual property issues. As the sole national expert, he will be responsible for training 400 emerging artists and cultural professionals across Ghana, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the creative industry.
The project, fully funded by UNESCO, aims to promote the creative arts sector in Ghana, contributing to the country’s economic growth and cultural development. The National Commission on Culture, in collaboration with stakeholders in the cultural and creative industries, will organize activities across the country, leveraging Bnoskka’s expertise to ensure the project’s success.
Following a competitive call for expressions of interest, Bnoskka was selected for his outstanding qualifications and experience in creative arts business and intellectual property. As the sole national expert, he will lead the implementation of the project, training 400 emerging artists and cultural professionals across Ghana.
The project aims to: Strengthen the creative arts sector in Ghana, Enhance the capacity of emerging artists and cultural professionals, Promote cultural diversity and creativity, and Foster international cooperation and collaboration.
Bnoskka’s responsibilities will include: Developing training programs and materials,Conducting workshops and training sessions, Mentoring emerging artists and cultural professionals and Collaborating with stakeholders in the cultural and creative industries.
Bnoskka, a lecturer at the School of Creative Arts, University of Education, Winneba, has established himself as a leading expert in creative arts business and intellectual property. He has organized numerous seminars and workshops, sharing his knowledge with artists, cultural professionals, and students. His expertise spans business development, trademark laws, patents, copyright, branding, and cultural and international relations.
As a published author and researcher, Bnoskka’s work focuses on music, arts, and culture business and intellectual property rights and law. His publications and research have contributed significantly to the field, making him a respected voice in Ghana and beyond.
This contract underscores Bnoskka’s commitment to promoting Ghana’s creative arts sector and his reputation as a leading expert in the field. His involvement in the UNESCO Aschberg Program is expected to have a lasting impact on the country’s creative industry, empowering emerging artists and cultural professionals to succeed.
News
‘Thousands of Ghanaian women suffering from Obstetric Fistula’
Thousands of Ghanaian women continue to suffer in silence from Obstetric Fistula (OF) due to inadequate access to surgical treatment, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has revealed.
Dr Wilfred Ochan, UNFPA’s Country Representative, disclosed that over the past decade, Ghana has accumulated a backlog of more than 12,000 untreated cases, despite recording an estimated 1,300 new cases each year.
He made the remarks during a visit to the New Times Corporation (NTC) in Accra to mark the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula (IDEOF).
“Only 1,000 repairs have been done in 10 years. That leaves thousands of women isolated, in pain, and excluded from society due to a condition that is both preventable and treatable,” Dr Ochan said.
He stressed the need for greater investment in surgical capacity, public awareness, and partnership, especially with the private sector— to accelerate Ghana’s efforts to eliminate the condition by 2030.
Obstetric Fistula results from prolonged or obstructed labour without timely medical care, causing a hole between the birth canal and bladder or rectum, leading to continuous leakage of urine or faeces. The consequences include stigma, chronic incontinence, and often, the death of the baby.
To help close the treatment gap, the UNFPA is working with health institutions including the Komfo Anokye and Cape Coast Teaching hospitals to scale up surgeries and outreach.
“We must not allow women to suffer lifelong trauma for simply trying to give life,” Dr Ochan urged.
The Managing Director, Mr Martin Adu-Owusu, pledged NTC’s support in raising public awareness and promoting maternal health initiatives.
“We are ready to collaborate with you to ensure that maternal deaths and issues affecting women come down to the barest minimum so that together we can achieve the UN goal to eliminating Obstetric Fistula by 2030,” he said
By Esinam Jemima Esinam
News
Inflated prices of Abaya, Jalabiya on Eid-al-Adha celebration
Muslims in Ghana and all over the world yesterday observed the Eid-al-Adha celebration.
It falls on the first day of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar and is celebrated by Muslims to mark the end of the month-long dawn-to-dusk fasting of Ramadan.
The build up to yesterday’s edition was characterised by a high demand for traditional Islamic attire here in Tamale, leading to a sharp rise in prices.
Checks by The Spectator from the various markets in the Tamale area revealed that prices for popular outfits like the Abaya, Jalabiya, and Kaftan have skyrocketed within the period.
Although there is no prescribed outfit for the celebration, many Muslims in Tamale traditionally choose modest and loose-fitting garments that reflect Islamic values.
Abayas and Jalabiyas often imported from Turkey, Dubai, Egypt, and Northern Nigeria have become particularly the most sought-after attires, resulting in the price hikes.
Currently, prices for men’s attire range from GH₵250 to GH₵800 while women’s outfits are selling from GH₵350 to GH₵1000.
Children’s garments are also not left out of the pricing craze. Bargaining for the youngsters starts from GH₵150.
Hajia Naila Abdul Karim, owner of ‘Cover with Style,’ confirmed a significant surge in sales in the holy month.
“Each day, more than 20 people, mostly women walk into the shop. We also send over 40 parcels daily to customers across the country,” she stated.
She attributed the price increases to the cedi’s depreciation and a recent shortage of Turkish imports, noting that most of her stock now comes from Dubai.
Hamdia Kamil, a loyal customer, shared her experience: “Two years ago, I bought an Abaya for GH₵350. This year, it’s GH₵650. I had no choice because it’s a special occasion and I want to feel good. Still, I hope the dresses are made affordable so others can also celebrate in style.”
At Baby Last Closet in Sakasaka, another fashion outlet, prices for women’s outfits range from GH₵350 to GH₵1,300, while men’s attire goes from GH₵250 to GH₵1,000.
“Some customers complain about the cost, but because it’s Ramadan, many still go ahead and buy,” said the shop owner.
Similarly, Mandy’s Haven at Zogbeli sells exclusively for Eid celebrations, dealing in high-end Abayas, Jalabiyas, and Kaftan materials. Prices there reflect quality and origin, with female attire ranging from GH₵450 to GH₵5,000, and kaftan fabric sold at GH₵200 per yard.
For many, including resident Iddrisu Suale, the holy month remains a sacred period despite the economic pressures. “Things are expensive this year, but I still want to make the day special for my children. I plan to get them Abayas and Jalabiyas from Egypt,” he indicated.
Despite the bustling nature of preparation and the high cost of goods, resident expressed optimism of having a good time in observing the deep spiritual significance of the occasion.
Story & photos by Paul Dery
