Editorial
Ensure right material are used for storey buildings
Dear Editor,
I write to draw to your attention to a growing phenomenon in our society and the country as a whole.
Growing up, I only saw a few storey buildings around the country. Most buildings I saw were ground structures that housed families.
I am now becoming a bit worried about the rate at which storey buildings are being built across the country.
While putting up a storey building helps in the effective utilisation of natural resources such as land, it could also lead to the loss of lives and properties if the right building materials are not used.
In Ghana, we have witnessed a number of storey buildings, including shopping malls and church buildings collapse, leading to loss of lives.
Often, investigations conducted by regulatory authorities in the building and construction sector have revealed that those buildings collapse because the right material was not used in the building process.
Although there have been calls from a section of the public for authorities to inspect storey buildings in the country to prevent disasters, I think those calls have fallen on deaf ears, considering the fast pace at which individuals and businesses are putting up storey buildings in the country.
Some of these storey buildings that are near completion or abandoned by its owners and cited in close proximity have even developed cracks, which poses threat to the lives of those who lived around.
I, therefore, as a matter of urgency, urge the duty bearers and regulatory authorities in the building and construction sector to ensure that those storey buildings are inspected and the contractors held accountable, to prevent another Melcom disaster.
Osei Kuka,
Accra
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
