News
‘Don’t stigmatise children with autism’
Founder of Liztino Centre for Children with Special Needs, Mrs Angel EIizabeth Bertino, has asked the public to stop stigmatising children with autism.
According to her, people suffering from autism (a serious development disorder especially among children), could live a normal life with the right support and assistance without any form of stigmatisation by society.
“It is very important for society to accept the children as they are harmless and can be better when they feel loved and accepted,” she stated in an interview with The Spectator.
Mrs Bertino said that in the developed countries such children got the needed support and acceptance to realise their potentials as normal children, and Ghana could do same if the public did not discriminate against them.
She said that there were many children with autism living in Ghana but were usually kept indoors for fear of attacks and discrimination.
“This makes their condition worse and they suffer from childhood to adulthood. We can do better as a country to make life easier for such children,” she stressed.
Her organisation which was formed over two years ago and some private entities she said, were currently championing the course of autism in Ghana and would require support from government to create more awareness about the condition.
“Government must come on board for more education and awareness campaigns to be staged to enlighten the public on the condition. This would go a long way to stop the discrimination and stigma attached to persons living with autism.
“Largely, discrimination is borne out of ignorance, especially when people continue to think the condition is spiritual and contagious.
“We need a lot of education in schools and homes so the public would understand the need to show love to autistic persons,” she intimated.
Mrs Bernito indicated that she would begin to visit schools and churches to educate them on the condition for them to know how best to handle people suffering from the disorder and alleged that some churches were even guilty in terms of discrimination as she had encountered several situations where her biological son, an autistic child, was maltreated because of his condition.
“The condition is not spiritual and children can perform better when they are understood and assisted by society,” she said.
This concerned parent said that children who had visited her facility received above 50 per cent of recovery and now lived normal lives with their families.
She called on organisations, schools and churches to understand that people living with autism were normal and could do better with love and care.
By Michael D. Abayateye
TODAY is Valentine’s Day, and red is the colour of the day. Red is considered a powerful colour, symbolising strength, courage, and passion.
Celebrities continue to slay in their red outfits, setting trends whenever they step out. From bold gowns to chic casual wear, red remains the ultimate statement for Valentine’s Day.
Some standout designs include:
- Berla Mundi – Stunning in a floor-length red dress paired with matching heels, radiating elegance and confidence.
- Celebrity street style – Casual yet eye-catching red ensembles, perfect for Valentine’s Day outings or social events.
- Accessory highlights – Red bags, shoes, and hats add a pop of power to otherwise simple outfits.
Whether for a romantic date or a fun celebration with friends, red ensures you are seen and remembered. On this Valentine’s Day, embrace the colour of love, courage, and energy—it’s your time to shine.
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TO promote Ghana’s cultural heritage, the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts has announced that government is encouraging Ghanaians to dedicate every Wednesday to the wearing of Fugu, also known as Batakari or smock, as part of efforts to promote the country’s cultural heritage.
In a correspondence dated February 10, 2026, the ministry explained that the initiative forms part of government’s broader commitment to preserve, promote and celebrate Ghana’s rich cultural identity.
It called on all Ghanaians, as well as friends of Ghana both at home and abroad, to take part by wearing fugu in its various designs and styles, together with its traditional accessories.
According to the ministry, the move is aimed at deepening national cultural awareness and strengthening the country’s sense of identity, while projecting Ghana’s heritage to the international community with pride.
The ministry further noted that the initiative is expected to bring social and economic benefits to the country.
It explained that increased use of fugu would support local weavers, designers, artisans and traders involved in the production and sale of the attire, while also creating more business and employment opportunities across the value chain.
Government believes that the nationwide embrace of fugu will help strengthen national unity, boost the creative economy and serve as a strong symbol of Ghana’s cultural confidence and self expression.
The correspondence was signed by the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, who reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to policies that promote Ghanaian culture and creative industries.
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