Editorial
Evacuation of Ghanaian students from Ukraine
As a result of the war between Russia and Ukraine, students studying in Ukraine have been seriously affected.
Due to the precarious situation in Ukraine many students who have gone to that country for studies but want to return home are being evacuated to Ghana for safety. Many of the students, fearing for their lives, have requested to be evacuated home.
Unfortunately, some of the students have stated that they will prefer to go to other countries rather than coming back home and the government of Ghana has made it clear that it will convey only those who are willing to come home. A few of the students have decided to join their friends in other countries instead of coming home, but the majority of them have stated that they will prefer to be evacuated back home to Ghana.
In view of this development, the Government of Ghana has done what it can to bring the students home. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led by Honourable Shirley Ayorkor Botchway has met some family members of the students in Accra to answer questions on the safety of the affected Ghanaian students.
This is a good effort by government but as usual, some propagandists have also decided to play politics with the issue by spreading false news that some Ghanaian students have been shot dead in Ukraine. This is a great lie and The Spectator is appealing to all political opponents who see themselves as not being in government to desist from such unhealthy practice.
Ghana is the only country we have so we must treasure it and ensure that as much as possible claims made by anybody about the country is nothing but the truth. We cannot continue to behave as if we are living in the jungle, only concerned about destruction of our motherland.
We thank God for the safe arrival of the students and hope that more of them will be brought home safely to reconcile with their families before going back to continue their studies if there is cessation of hostilities.
On this note, The Spectator commends the government for acting swiftly to bring our dear students back home safely. At the same time, we wish to appeal to Russia to stop its invasion of Ukraine and give peace a chance.
The world today needs lasting peace and this can be brought about by all countries irrespective of where they are on this earth. Russia must listen to the call for peace and stop the aggressive acts it has embarked upon.
We would again want to thank all those individuals and groups, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the efforts made in bringing the students home safely.
Following the closure of airports in Ukraine, the students had to be assisted through surrounding countries such as Hungary, Romania, Slovakia and others before being brought home, so we thank all those who helped in various ways to make their evacuation possible.
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