Editorial
Bringing up a child the right way
The world is facing many social problems today because of the improper upbringing of children in society.
Some of the problems are stealing, armed robbery, indiscipline, teenage pregnancy and general dishonesty. Others are drug addiction and threats to life and property of neighbours.
These problems did not emerge overnight but over a long period due to the neglect by parents to ensure that children are brought up to follow rules of discipline and love.
Parents and society ought to have time for children, so that their concerns can be adequately addressed from time to time.
If this is done on a regular basis, the adult members of society will help the children to grow up into responsible citizens. Irresponsible parenthood is a serious problem in society.
Some women are now parents as a result of teenage pregnancy and unpreparedness to work hard and cater for their children.
Some of the children are also left at the mercy of peer groups which may be good or bad. If a particular peer group happens to be good, it will influence a child to adopt good behaviour and become a responsible citizen.
On the other hand, if a child falls into the hand of a bad peer group, he or she will be influenced to behave in an unacceptable way. It is, therefore, necessary for parents and society to pay attention to the upbringing of a child, so that this child will be taught the right way to behave well in society.
Today, the government has introduced free education in terms of Senior High Schools as well as Technical and Vocational Schools. It is necessary for parents to complement this opportunity to ensure that children are well catered for in the house, and provided with basic needs, such as food, clothing and shelter.
If this is done, it will be difficult for any children to go wayward and follow bad company. Indiscipline in society among the youth comes about when the children are left alone to fend for themselves anyhow. If the children are well catered for, waywardness on their part can be easily prevented.
Adults should always know that it is not just enough to bring forth children when they are not ready to carry on with the responsibility of caring for them.
Childcare is an enormous task that cannot be taken for granted. It involves working hard to earn a living and also getting adequate quality time to cater for the needs of these children.
Many social problems have come about because of irresponsible parenthood, so we must all work hard to put an end to this negative practice.
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
