News
Govt Urged to Collaborate with Council of PTAs to Promote Development in Schools
The President of the National Council of Parent Teachers Association (NCPTA), Mr Christian Atsu, has called on the government to collaborate closely with the association to enhance development across all pre-tertiary education institutions in Ghana.
Speaking on behalf of the umbrella body representing all PTAs in the country, Mr Atsu highlighted that the association is open to discussions on key issues affecting schools, particularly those impacting parents and their children, who are the primary beneficiaries.
He expressed concern over instances where school heads receive directives from authorities without consulting the PTA, noting that such practices hinder realistic development efforts through the joint action of all stakeholders.
Mr Atsu further admonished school heads to communicate openly about challenges that conflict with existing policies or structures without fear of victimisation, stressing that transparency is crucial for the betterment of both learners and parents.
He noted that while school heads sign Performance Contracts, they often face persistent challenges including:
- Infrastructure deficits
- High teacher-student ratios
- Overcrowded classrooms
- Insufficient logistical support
“In the absence of timely government support, school heads are often compelled to adopt alternative strategies to keep schools running, including seeking support from parents and organising extra classes,” he explained.
Mr Atsu added that PTAs have been pivotal in sustaining schools, citing contributions such as providing duty posts for staff and supplying rice and other feeding materials. He urged the government to establish a formalised partnership with PTAs to ensure sustainable development in schools.
“We parents are here to assist government so that the benefits trickle down to our children,” he stated.
Addressing concerns about some schools levying illegal or repetitive charges, Mr Atsu clarified that NCPTA-approved dues and levies are GH¢21 per semester, with an upper limit of GH¢100, all earmarked for school development projects. Any additional parental contributions are voluntary and considered a concerted effort to support school initiatives.
He emphasised that PTAs are voluntary, non-statutory bodies registered under the Companies Act 2019 (Act 992) and exist to complement government efforts in improving educational outcomes.
Spectator
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For the first time in its seven-year history, the celebrated Guinea Fowl Bazaar has been brought to Accra, marking a significant expansion of an event that has, for the past six years, been a staple in Tamale.
The two-day cultural and culinary festival, held from May 1–2, drew over 500 patrons and featured nearly 20 vendors, to promote Northern Ghana’s rich food culture particularly guinea fowl delicacies.
Hosted by By Faith Catering Services, the bazaar brought together traditional leaders, cultural groups, food entrepreneurs, and government representatives in a display of heritage and enterprise.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Angelo Dogbe, the Northern Regional Director of the Ghana Tourism Authority underscored the importance of promoting indigenous cuisine as a tool for economic development and cultural preservation. Chiefs from the Northern Region also graced the occasion, lending traditional authority and reinforcing the cultural significance of the festival.
A major highlight of the bazaar was a series of captivating cultural performances representing the diverse tribes of the Northern Region. Attendees were treated to traditional music, dance, and attire, transforming the venue into a lively tapestry of Northern identity and pride.
Vendors expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to showcase their products to a new audience in the capital. Many noted increased visibility, networking opportunities, and strong sales throughout the two-day event.
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of By Faith Catering Services, Mrs. Matilda Zenabu Pipio described the Accra edition as a strategic move to broaden the reach of the festival and create new economic pathways for vendors and producers from the north.
She announced plans to make the Accra bazaar an annual event, emphasizing its potential to boost employment, promote guinea fowl production, and introduce more Ghanaians to the unique flavours of Northern cuisine.
She said, the event is a platform for cultural exchange, economic empowerment, and national unity through food.
She commended partners and called on more organisers to support and invest in initiatives like this.
Meanwhile, the organizers of Guinea fowl Bazaar paid a courtesy call to the Editor of Spectator, Mrs. Georgina Naa-Maku Quaittoo and Mr. David Adadevoh, Acting Editor of The Ghanaian Times.
Both editors lauded the initiatives and encouraged the organizers to sustain it.
Organizers for the initiative and called on stakeholders and cooperate bodies to support this good course.
By Geoffrey Buta.
MTN Ghana has hosted more than 200 students from various educational institutions in Accra for an engaging, hands-on technology immersion at MTN House, bringing classroom theory to life and fueling interest in STEM and digital innovation.
Students from Ashesi University, Ghana International School, Cradle Star Academy, and Kinderland School explored MTN Ghana’s rich history, core values, customer-focused innovations, and digital transformation agenda.
They were introduced to the company’s sustainability and social impact initiatives, spanning education, youth empowerment and community development. A key highlight of the visits was a tour of MTN Ghana’s Network Operations Centre (NOC) and data centres.
The students gained first-hand exposure to the advanced technology, systems, and expertise powering seamless connectivity for millions daily – offering a rare look into how MTN ensures network performance, security, and resilience.
Speaking on the initiative, the Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer at MTN Ghana, Adwoa Wiafe, noted, “Hosting students at MTN House reflects our commitment to shaping Ghana’s digital future. As we deliver our Ambition 2030 strategy, we are deepening investments in youth development through programmes like the Bright Scholarship, the MTN Digital Skills Academy, and collaborations on the One Million Coders Programme and the Girls in ICT initiative led by the Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation.”
Paschal Paaga, Manager for IT Projects Implementation, emphasised the importance of experiential learning.
‘’By opening our doors, we are helping to bridge the gap between academia and industry. We want young people to see the real-world impact of technology and be inspired to pursue careers in STEM.”
For many participants, the experience was transformative. Maame Sapomaa, a Level 300 Information Systems student from Ashesi University, shared, “The visit was incredibly inspiring. Everything we have learned in the classroom came to life, and we were exposed to new concepts beyond our studies. It has motivated me even more to pursue a career in technology.”
As MTN Ghana advances its Ambition 2030 vision, the company remains committed to driving digital inclusion, platform-led innovation, and building strategic partnerships that support Ghana’s long-term socio-economic development.
