Editorial
Attitudinal change, tough measures can help control filth
A walk or drive through the streets of Accra and other cities would expose one to the state of filth that has engulfed our country.
Over the years we have not been able to properly tackle this menace due to lack of behavioural change, increasing rate of urbanisation, indiscriminate dumping of plastics, among other factors.
But the remedy to poor sanitation cannot rest on the shoulders of one person, department, or organisation. The onus lies on us the citizenry since we are all part of the ‘mess’.
My worry, however, is that there’s little or no sense of civic responsibility on the part of citizens when it comes to proper sanitation. We continue to generate waste and recklessly dispose waste in our various communities.
We litter our surroundings, cut down trees, burn rubbish and anything around us haphazardly. In spite of warnings, some residents continue to build on water ways while others turn open drains into dumping grounds.
Our country continues to face a lot of infrastructure and political challenges but these challenges would linger on if we do not maintain clean and healthy environment.
While I believe we must reinforce the message on attitudinal change, sanitation courts should continue to impose hefty fines on persons who breach sanitation regulations.
The weekly and monthly environment clean up should be reactivated and government must as well put words to action when it comes to banning “harmful” plastics. These and other workable measures, I believe, would go a long way to help control filth in our country.
Matilda Opoku Boabeng,
Student, Ghana Institute of Journalism
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
