Check cases of drug abuse among youth of Shukura and environs

Dear Sir,

I write this letter as a concerned citizen of the country to bring to your notice the increasing rate of the intake of hard drugs by the youth of Shukura and its environs.

This issue is of great concern because of the negative impact of the hard drugs such as tobacco, cannabis and heroine on the youth in the area.

The situation has created a state of insecurity as residents find it difficult to walk around at night for fear of being attacked by these drug addicts.

Strangely, there is a police station in the community but police personnel either don’t show any interest in their activities or struggle to track their activities.

This has given them some freedom to misbehave around the area and endanger the lives of the people.

At this stage, it has become important for the residents in the community to collaborate with the police in addressing the issue.

I want to implore the police in the area to conduct patrol exercise in the area, especially at nights.

That aside, I would want to urge the authorities to embark a campaign on drug addiction in the area to let the youth know and understand the dangers and harm drugs exposes them to.

Chris Nii Narh,

Shukura

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