Editorial
Curb fraud in financial institutions!
In recent times it has emerged that fraudulent activities in many financial institutions are on the increase and that some members of staff of these financial institutions are involved in such unfortunate acts.
Consequently, the Bank of Ghana has advised all banks as well as savings and credit institutions, to take proactive measures aimed at preventing such negative practices.
The banking sector constitutes an important part of the economy, so fraudulent activities involving some banking staff tend to downgrade the confidence that people have in the financial sector. This can create serious problems for any country.
The banks are institutions for the mobilisation of financial resources to facilitate business growth in the economy.
Such fraudulent acts, therefore, have the tendency not only to destroy financial institutions in the country, but to throw economic growth out of gear.
For that reason, The Spectator is appealing to all financial institutions to up their game in terms of security measures to ensure that fraudulent deals are prevented if not minimised.
One way of doing this is to ensure that prospective employees are properly screened so that would-be fraudsters are not engaged under any circumstances to enter the financial institutions.
Another measure is to ensure that those who are caught in fraudulent deals are given severe punishment to deter others from engaging in such unpleasant activities.
As many people are in need of employment, prospective employees should not be selected based on whom you know. If people are recruited on the basis of whom you know, prospective fraudsters cannot be weeded out.
It is, therefore, important that honest people are scrutinised and employed to work in our financial institutions, be it the banks or savings and loans institutions.
This is how we can protect ourselves against fraud to ensure that decent jobs are carried out by all the financial institutions in the country.
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
